North Yorkshire Police were called at around 4.25pm today (13 March 2012) after reports of an explosive device had been uncovered by workmen at the Talbot Hotel on Yorkersgate, Malton.
Officers have put a 200m cordon in place as a precaution and are advising members of the public to avoid the area.
The cordon will remain in place until the army bomb disposal unit have had the chance to examine the object.
Further updates to follow as detail becomes available.