Alert that forced people from their homes was 'elaborate hoax'

A security alert that forced people from their homes in County Antrim has ended after being declared a hoax.

At about 18:50 on Wednesday it was reported that a suspected explosive device had been found at the front of a house in Hillview Avenue in Lambeg.

Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) attended the scene, examined the item, carried out a controlled explosion and deemed it to be an elaborate hoax.

Cordons have been lifted and those whose homes were evacuated are now able to return.

The PSNI's Insp Roberts said: "We appreciate the inconvenience caused to residents when they were out of their homes, and we thank them for their patience and co-operation as this public safety operation was conducted.

Speaking earlier, SDLP councillor Pat Catney said he believed there could be "up to 100 people that are affected by this".

Catney, who was at the scene, told BBC News NI that Lagan Valley Island had been opened for anyone that was out of their house.

Independent councillor Gary Hynds who was also in the area said he had been "trying to reassure residents".

Sinn Féin councillor Declan Lynch said the alert had caused serious disruption and has "forced many families from their homes".