UPDATED: World War Two ordnance found in the Thames

Police remain at the scene of a World War II ordnance discovered in the River Thames at George V Dock, E16.

The unexploded ordnance was discovered as part of pre-planned work at London City Airport and reported to the police at 05:06hrs on Sunday, 11 February. Specialist officers and the Royal Navy have attended and confirmed the nature of the device.

At around 22:00hrs on Sunday, 11 February an operational decision was made with the Royal Navy to implement a 214-metre exclusion zone to ensure that the ordnance can be safely dealt with whilst limiting any risk to the public.

Overnight, officers have been helping to evacuate properties within the exclusion zone and police are working with the local authority to provide residents with temporary emergency accommodation and the appropriate support.

A number of road cordons are in place, and motorists planning to travel through this part of Newham borough are urged to seek alternative routes.

The operation to remove the ordnance is ongoing in partnership with our colleagues in the Royal Navy. While we endeavour to progess the operation as quickly as possible and minimise disruption, it is important that all of the necessary steps and precautions are taken to ensure it is dealt with safely. We would like to thank everyone affected for their patience and cooperation.

For updates, please coninue to check http://news.met.police.uk/latest_news and Twitter @metpoliceuk.

+ London City Airport has been closed, and passengers due to fly from the airport on Monday, 12 February are being urged to contact their airline.