Streets were brought to a standstill earlier today after a hoaxer planted a fake bomb made from a battery and a "biscuit tin".


A large area around Buckingham Road in Brighton was blocked off for hours after officers were alerted to the suspicious package found fixed to a wall.


Bomb disposal teams were scrambled to the scene outside Derwent Court at around midday after the mysterious “device” was spotted by a member of the public.


Police cordons were placed from Albert Road to Upper North Street while remote-control robots moved in for a closer look.


At one point a loud bang was heard as expert officers performed a controlled explosion.


After three hours, police announced the device posed no threat to the public and the streets were re-opened.

Police said they were now hunting for a hoaxer after determining the fake bomb had been “deliberately made and was intended to cause alarm”.

One bystander, who spotted the object on the wall, said: “It looked like a biscuit tin wrapped in paper with a battery glued to the side.

“I thought it was an art installation or something at first – it’s a very odd place for a bomb.

“I didn’t think much of it, but then I heard the sirens.”

Another relieved resident said: “The police started coming round telling everyone to stay in their houses. It was a bit scary.

“I’m just glad it wasn’t a real bomb and that no one was hurt. I hope they find whoever made the fake bomb – they’ve certainly caused a lot of trouble.”

Neighbourhood response Inspector Paul Ransome said: "It appears that this object was deliberately made and intended to cause alarm, even though on expert examination it posed no threat.

"We will always take matters of this nature seriously and an investigation is now underway.

"I would like to thank the local community for their cooperation."