A SUSPECTED bomb which forced nearby residents to be evacuated from their homes was found to be firework powder.

Army bomb disposal experts said the item, which was spotted by officers at Stansted Mountfitchet police station at around 12.30pm today (Monday), contained “black explosive powder used in fireworks” and was not dangerous.

Police re-opened the B1381 Cambridge Road in both directions at around 5pm and removed the 100m cordon which had been set up.

The incident caused major disruption to motorists and led to long delays.

Vehicles were diverted away from the incident and traffic was brought to a standstill on Chapel Hill, Lower Street and High Lane.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Officers discovered an unexploded device to the rear of Stansted Mountfitchet police station shortly after 12.30pm today.

“An Army bomb disposal unit advised officers to implement a 100m cordon around the station which was carried out. Officers also closed nearby roads.

“Army disposal experts later said the item was black explosive powder used in fireworks and road closures were removed by 5pm.”