AN unexploded First World War bomb forced the evacuation of large parts of Teignmouth seafront today.

An 800-metre cordon was thrown around an area either side of the resort’s pier – and on to The Den – amid a panic over the sighting of the explosive device under the water.

Police and coastguards are patrolling the area while the matter is investigated by bomb squad experts.

Several hundred people were cleared from the beach and the pier at midday when the alarm was raised. The exclusion zone remained in place at 1pm.

Unconfirmed reports suggested the scare was over a submerged 1,000lb UXB about 100 metres off the pier.

One witness from the scene said: ‘I’ve heard the bomb is much bigger than they initially thought. That’s why they have extended the no-go area. The seafront is deserted.’He added: 'It now appears police have closed all roads leading to the seafront, and senior officers are starting to arrive at the scene.'

Police were called by the Royal Navy Bomb Squad shortly after midday following reports of a possible unexploded WW1 device near the pier.

A spokesman said: ‘A 500-metre cordon is currently in place and we are evacuating the area. Officers and bomb disposal team remain at the scene.’

The spokesman added: ‘Public are advised to avoid the area at this time.’

It’s understood the cordon has been extended to 800 metres since the police statement was issued just before 1pm. The force helicopter has now been called in and is advising the public via loudspeaker to keep away from the area.