Suspected bomb found in garage

People evacuated from their homes after a suspected bomb was found in a garage have been allowed back after an 'all-clear'.

Homes were cleared in and around Shortmead Street, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, shortly after the discovery at around 3.20pm on Thursday 3 March 2011.  A 100m cordon was put in place by Bedfordshire Police.

Surrounding roads were closed off, and ambulance and fire crews attended the scene in Shortmead Street as a precaution.

A bomb disposal team declared the situation safe after finding the device to be an empty shell.

Police said the cordons were lifted shortly before 6pm.