Seed pod

I picked this seed pod up from a garden at work.  It's an impressive thing - about 10-12 cms long, firm, a little weighty, hairy and just beginning to 'pop' some seeds.  I have no idea what it is and have never seen anything like it before.  I shall have to revisit where I found it and see which tree or bush it's come from.  

Anyone out there got any ideas?