Police closed off part of the city centre after a suspicious package was discovered in Broad Street

A suspicious package blown up by a bomb disposal team in Canterbury has been confirmed as another elaborate hoax – the third in the city in as many weeks.

Part of the city centre was sealed off after the package was discovered by a police officer next to a house in Broad Street at around 1.15pm.

An investigation is now under way to trace the person responsible.

The incident is not currently being linked to the two hoax bombs which were left in the city at the end of last month.

A fake device was discovered in Old Dover Road and a suspicious fire started in Marks and Spencer on August 26.

Det Insp Michelle Whitehead said: "Although the package was found to be an elaborate hoax, we take events of this nature extremely seriously and our main priority is to ensure the safety of the public.

"We want to thank people in Canterbury for their patience. We want everyone to be vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour or packages to us immediately."

More than 50 police officers were involved in yesterday's incident

Children at the Diocesan Payne Smith School plus homes and businesses in Broad Street, Northgate and The Borough were evacuated as a precaution during yesterday's incident.

Canterbury Cathedral was temporarily closed to visitors.

A controlled explosion was carried out on the package at around 4pm. Further tests revealed it did not contain explosives.

All roads were re-opened by 9pm.

• Anyone with information or who saw anything suspicious should call Kent Police on 01622 690690 or Kent Crimestoppersanonymously on 0800 555 111.