hello, no it wasnt a hoax. i was at work and had trouble getting back on to see replies. left for the weekend unaware of all the posts id had. i will be phoning the police later. im not too worried about this item as ive had it several years. ive held on to it as it aroused my curiosity because no-one who has seen it seems to know what it is. it was in the back of my car recently when i moved house, so it cant be very volatile. thank you all for your interest. as soon as i have it identified i will be back to let you all know.xx