UPDATE: 'Unexploded device' that led to Poole Quay being sealed off was piece of scrap metal

Police kept people away from the area while the incident was dealt with.

Fishing vessels were among those being kept away from the stretch of water concerned.

Picture: Adam Frame

Dorset Police said earlier: "At around 9.29am we were called to reports of an unexploded device that was discovered at Cemex UK in New Quay Road in Poole.

"A cordon is in place in the nearby area while officers liaise with the Military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team.

Road closures were in place in a section of the High Street, Thames Street, Castle Street and an area of water in Poole Harbour.

The cordon was lifted around 11.45am after the 'device' turned out to be a piece of scrap metal.

Picture: Adam Frame

A Dorset Police spokesperson said: "The cordon that was place in Poole Quay following the discovery of an item has now been lifted.

"The device was established to be a piece of scrap metal.

"Thank you to everyone for their patience and understanding."

Picture: Adam Frame

Fleurie Forbes-Martin, at nearby business Salad Brand & Communications, said: “The area is completely taped off so no one can access it. There’s a police boat out there making sure no one can get near and a couple of police cars.”

An employee of Harlees Fish and Chips salon said: “All I saw was the road was closed off by police at Old Orchard. There were three officers by the tape but I didn’t stop and chat."

An employee of the Lord Nelson pub, who asked not to be named, said he saw a police car with blue flashing lights on pass the pub.

He also said there was one car parked outside The Quay where there was another cordon manned by officers.