House cordoned off in 'nail bomb' drama

The road was closed to traffic and residents were warned to stay indoors and keep away from windows after police found the device in a house in North Trade Road.

Officers were at the house at 4.15pm searching for suspected stolen goods when they found what they believed was a bomb in a drawer in the 15-year-old's bedside table.

The device was made out of batteries, nails and yellow putty and had a clock face.

Following the disturbing find, police left the house and the bomb disposal team was called.

A 100m cordon was put in place around the house, which is near Wellington Gardens.

The bomb disposal team arrived at 5.45pm and x-rayed the item, but found it was just a model of a bomb and was not capable of being exploded.

The road was reopened an hour later.

The teen was not charged with any offence as the device was harmless.

But police say if it had been left in a public place, the youth could have faced charges under the Public Order Act or the Explosives Act.

No further bombs, associated paraphernalia or equipment were found in the house.

Police Sergeant Dan Russell said: "The public were never in danger at any time.

"The road blocks were put as a precaution until the device was fully inspected.

"The device was clearly just a model made from household items and never intended for any other purposes.

"We are continuing to work with the family.

"Thank you to the public for their patience whilst the road closures were on."