Hundreds of homes are being evacuated this morning after a suspected World War Two missile is being moved out of Falmouth Docks for disposal.

The device – believed to be an American missile – was found within the dock area on Monday afternoon and cordons have been in place since.

Police said that a total of 339 homes fall within the cordon and Cornwall Council is advising those being evacuated to go to All Saints Church along Killigrew Street, or any area outside the evacuation area.

Supt Ian Thompson from Devon and Cornwall Police said: ‘We don’t know how many people will be evacuated.

‘We expect some residents to go to work and go about their daily lives and come back later. But be prepared to have to come to a meeting point like All Saints Parish Church.’

However, the advice is very clear: ‘Do not delay leaving to gather non-essential belongings.’

Everyone within the affected area must follow police evacuation instructions. Businesses and accommodation providers should pass those instructions to staff, customers and guests, explains the council.

If someone isn’t able to leave their home without help, they are asked to let emergency services know when they knock on their door as part of the evacuation.

GWR also announced last night it was going to suspend train services between Falmouth Town and Falmouth Docks from 8.45am.

Cornwall Council and Devon and Cornwall Police have put a 750-metre cordon in place and are urging all residents within the area to leave their homes.

A military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team is assessing the device.

Superintendent Vicky Howell said: ‘We have extended the cordon around Falmouth Docks following the discovery of a suspected unexploded ordnance device.

‘Specialist Explosive Ordnance Disposal officers are on the scene and we are working closely with our partner agencies to manage the incident safely.

‘We would like to thank residents, businesses and members of the public for their patience and cooperation while this incident is ongoing.

‘We ask people to continue avoiding the area and to follow any instructions given by emergency services personnel.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

For more stories like this, .

MORE: Incredible new images show how weather nearly derailed D-Day invasion

MORE: Rainbow-coloured ‘forgotten’ Poldark sea cave lost forever in cliff fall

MORE: Bank holiday ‘over-tourism’ causes huge traffic queues and raging locals