About 60 people have spent the night away from home after a suspected Second World War bomb was discovered containing up to 1,000lb (450kg) of explosives.

The unexploded device led to the closure of the A259 South Coast Road when it was found shortly before 3pm on Wednesday in Peacehaven.

A 200-metre cordon was also set up.

Temporary accommodation was provided for those who were forced to leave their homes, with Sussex Police saying dozens of people were being housed in rest centres in the town.

Chief Superintendent Nick May, of Sussex Police, said: "We recognise that it has meant considerable upset for residents - including children and senior citizens - who have had to abandon their homes at short notice, and for motorists faced with delays and diversions to their journeys.

"Our primary concern throughout has had to be their safety and well-being."

Emergency services and experts from explosive ordnance disposal are working at the site, police added.

The A259 past the former police station is closed with diversions in place. However motorists are being urged to avoid the area.

The Coast Road is shut between Roderick Avenue in the east and Malines Avenue in the west.

Also shut were Phyllis Avenue, Hoddern Avenue, Rowe Avenue, Sutton Avenue, Cavell Avenue and Roderick Avenue to its junction with Arundel Road.

This morning, schools in the area announced they would closed for the day.