A BOMB scare at a County Durham pub was a hoax, police have said.

Police and a bomb squad were called to the Hat and Feathers pub, in Church Street, Seaham at about 8.50pm last night.

Residents living nearby were unable to return to their homes for hours after the area was evacuate while enquiries were carried out.

The Explosive Ordnance Disposal team attended and concluded the item was not a live explosive.

Read more: Investigation after 'suspicious' package found in Seaham

Inspector Gary Smith said: “An investigation into the origins of the item has now been launched, and residents may notice increased police activity in the area while enquiries are made.

“I’d like to reassure the community that this was a hoax, and there is no risk to the public.”

Further enquiries are being made.

People at the Wetherspoons pub were told to evacuate last night, while residents living nearby also had to leave their homes.

 A cordon remained in place until around 4.30am.

Officers thanked those affected for their patience and cooperation. 

Anybody with any information relating to the incident is asked to contact Durham Police on 101, quoting incident number 439 of November 19.

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