Ferries and trains halted and roads closed after bomb is dredged up in Portsmouth Harbour.

The discovery of the Second World War 500lb device by the crew of a dredger at 3am today also led to extensive road closures in the area.

All ferries in the harbour were stopped and trains between Portsmouth and Southsea station and Portsmouth Harbour were suspended.

Police said they were at the scene and a specialist disposal team was on the way.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said: ‘Our priority is to ensure public safety and minimise community disruption while the ordnance is detonated by the Royal Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal. Specialist teams will be looking to move the ordinance to a safe location this morning.

‘Residents in Portsmouth Harbour and Spice Island and surrounding areas are being notified and offered the relevant safety advice – to stay indoors, open any windows and move away from the outer walls of your house.

‘Portsmouth Harbour Railway Station and Coach Station will be closed this morning and the Gosport and Isle of Wight ferries will also be affected while this is being dealt with.

‘Gunwharf Quays will also be closed for the duration of this operation.

‘We would ask the public to avoid the Portsmouth Harbour area this morning if at all possible.

‘Please be reassured that we are dealing with this incident as quickly as possible in order to limit the impact on residents, businesses and commuters.

‘Thank you for your patience.’