Men arrested over bomb hoax outside shop

A "suspicious package" was taped to a bollard outside the Nisa store (stock picture)

Two men have been arrested after what appeared to be a fake bomb was found strapped to a bollard outside a shop.

Police were called to Durham Road in Birtley, Gateshead, at 08:20 GMT following reports of a "suspicious package" in front of the Nisa store.

The area was cordoned off and a number of buildings were evacuated, Northumbria Police said, as an army bomb squad was called in to destroy the item, which "did not present a risk".

A man in his 40s and another in his 20s were arrested on suspicion of placing a hoax bomb with intent. Both remain in custody.

The package, which did not pose a risk, was taped to a bollard outside the shop

A video published on social media showed a remote controlled bomb disposal vehicle was used to destroy the package.

"After ensuring the area was safe, Explosive Ordnance Disposal were stood down and the cordon removed," a force spokesperson added.

"The area has fully re-opened to residents."