POLICE are shouting at canal boats to turn around after an unexploded ordnance was discovered in the river near Worcester Bridge.

Oblivious canal boat drivers making their way along the river Severn are being turned around at Worcester Bridge.

Police on the riverbank are having to shout instructions to those aboard while other people yell "There's a bomb!"

The city centre has ground to a halt after the discovery of an unexploded ordnance in the river.

New Road and Worcester Bridge are currently closed while police are redirecting traffic outside Worcester Cathedral back towards Sidbury.

The roads are expected to be closed for some time.

Live updates as Worcester Bridge closes and police divert traffic

Breaking: Unexploded 'bomb' discovered in city centre closing Worcester Bridge

A West Mercia Police spokesperson said: "New Road in Worcester is currently closed following the discovery of an unexploded ordnance in the River Severn.  A 100m cordon is in place as a precaution, which includes Worcester bridge.

"Experts from Explosive Ordnance Disposal are on their way to assess the device.

"The road is expected to be closed for some time so please avoid the area.  We’ll update further when we can."