A19 at Hartlepool reopens after controlled explosion of suspicious device

The A19 at Hartlepool has reopened after being closed for several hours due to a suspicious item being found at a nearby garage.

The road was closed in both directions between the A689 at Wolviston and the A179 Hart bypass for around three hours on Wednesday.

It caused long delays but the road reopened at around 7pm after the suspect device was blown up in a controlled explosion nearby.

Cleveland Police stated: “The A19, which was closed around the Hartlepool area while EOD colleagues dealt with an explosive device, has re-opened.

"The device was disposed of in a controlled explosion on nearby farmland.

“Thanks to all motorists and other emergency services/partners for your support.”

Cleveland Fire Brigade also attended the incident: “One fire engine from Billingham was in attendance.

"Crews provided assistance to the police on protective standby.

"We left the scene at 18.23pm.

Police earlier said the suspect device was taken to a garage while they waited for the bomb disposal squad to come and examine it.