A BOMB squad was called to one of the main roads to Gatwick Airport this afternoon after workmen reported to have found an unexploded wartime shell.
A section of the A23 London Road between Fleming Way roundabout and the Lowfield Heath roundabout was closed at around 1pm while the Army bomb disposal team dealt with the incident.
Guests in nearby hotels were told to stay indoors.
However upon further inspection, the one and a half foot long object turned out to be a piece of metal pipe and the road was reopened almost two hours later.
Sussex Police said the road was closed to protect members of the public. The airport remained open throughout the incident.
