BIRKENHEAD was brought to a complete stand-still this morning as an "elaborate hoax" caused road closures.

Bomb disposal experts were brought in after police were called at around 7.20am to reports of a suspicious package outside Brunswick House, Price Street, Birkenhead.

It triggered a security alert as officers cordoned off the area and Army Explosive Ordinance were drafted in to deal with the problem.

Ambulances, police cars and fire engines were also on stand-by as the incident unfolded.

But Army EOD officers established the package was a hoax and the area was re-opened at around 11.15am when forensic recovery was complete.

Detective Inspector Anne Rannard said: "We treat this very seriously. Although this was not a viable device someone had gone to great lengths to cause considerable disruption and upset this morning.

"There is a full forensic investigation taking place and we are determined to find the people responsible for this hoax."

Anyone with any information regarding the security alert can call Merseyside Police on 0151 777 2265 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.