POLICE cordoned off a city street following the discovery of a suspicious device.

The Blue Moon and neighbouring premises in Goodramgate, York were evacuated, said North Yorkshire Police.

"It is not believed there is a threat to the wider public, but the road has been closed as a precaution," said a force spokeswoman.

"The Army Bomb Disposal Unit is attending the scene to assess the device.

"People are being urged to avoid the area."

The Army Bomb Disposal Unit attended the scene to assess the device, which was later taken away to be disposed of.

The police spokeswoman said she could not confirm the exact nature of the device, but it had initially been reported as an old Army 'trip flare' - a device used by military forces to set up secure perimeters using tripwires and a flare.

No arrests were made and no cautions were given, and the road was reopen at just after 1pm.