BOMB disposal experts were called on Friday morning following reports of a suspicious package left in a town centre.
Police were called to Bishop Auckland at 10.50am to reports of a suspicious package left in the market place.
A cordon was put in place around the discovery while police liaised with bomb disposal experts, who confirmed that it was not an explosive device and that there was no risk to the public.
A resident at the scene said shops and the market place were cleared while police called traffic to a halt.
It is understood that the item was spotted near scaffolding in the area and was reported by a concerned member of the public.
A Durham Constabulary spokesman said: “We would like to reassure people that this was a call made with good intent and thank them for their patience while we dealt with the incident.
"As Christmas approaches, we would urge people to remain vigilant when out and about at crowded places and winter events.”
Anyone who sees anything suspicious should report it on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.
Suspicious activity can also be reported online at gov.uk/act
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