ARMED police were called after a man wearing a balaclava with canisters taped to his body walked into a bar - but it has since been revealed the incident was a "prank".

Dorset police, the NPAS helicopter and officers went to the Dancing Moose bar in Poole following the incident at about 5.30pm on Wednesday.

The man had canisters taped to his body with duct tape and left shortly after walking in without saying anything.

Officers investigating the incident said two other men appeared to be with the man. The two men were filming the incident.

This morning, a spokesperson for Dorset Police issued an update. They said: "One of the men believed to be involved has now contacted police to claim it was a prank and that there was no viable device involved.

"He is assisting with enquiries.

"At this stage no arrests have been made and detectives are continuing to investigate."

Police previously indicated the incident was a hoax.

Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said: “This was a fast-moving incident and, as a result of initial police investigations, it would appear that this incident was a hoax and not someone wearing a viable device.

“However, extensive resources were deployed to the scene in order to ensure members of the public were protected and an investigation is underway.

“I would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding during this incident and praise the professionalism of the officers deployed."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55170170969.