A CRIMINAL investigation has been launched after a hoax 'device' was found in the grounds of the Falmouth Hotel in the early hours of this morning.

Police were called to the hotel at around 3.15am this morning following reports of a suspicious package having been located on the grounds outside of the hotel, Cliff Road.

Falmouth Packet:

Hotels evacuated after 'hoax' device found in grounds of hotel at start of G7. Picture Sarah Cartlidge

Those staying within the Falmouth Hotel, Madeira Hotel and campervans in the area, as well as neighbouring properties were safely evacuated as a precautionary measure.

A 100 meter cordon was put in place and Royal Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal [EOD] were sent to the scene.

Falmouth Packet:

Hotels evacuated after 'hoax' device found in grounds of hotel at start of G7. Picture Sarah Cartlidge

Following EOD assessment, the device has been declared not viable and therefore safe.

In total around 100 were displaced;  these people are now being allowed back into their rooms and the 100 meter cordon is being removed.

A smaller scene guard will remain in place until the item is collected and removed by scenes of crime.

Falmouth Packet:

Hotels evacuated after 'hoax' device found in grounds of hotel at start of G7. Picture Sarah Cartlidge

The police currently believe that this was a hoax incident and a criminal investigation has been launched.

The police thanked the public and those who were evacuated for their assistance.

The hoax came at the start of the G7 summit taking place at Carbis Bay this weekend. US president Joe Biden arrived in the UK last night.