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Bomb disposal unit scrambled to Sandwich Bay

16:00, 15 February 2024

updated: 16:21, 15 February 2024

An explosives team detonated a Second World War bomb on a beach after a dog walker discovered it.

The bomb squad sealed off an area of Sandwich Bay this morning after the rusty-coloured object was spotted protruding from the sand.

The potential bomb was buried underneath the sand on Sandwich Bay
The potential bomb was buried underneath the sand on Sandwich Bay

A man who made the discovery while walking his labrador, explained: “I thought I would leave this one to the professionals.

“I reported it to the coastguard using what three words, who promptly arrived and then called the explosive and ordnance team.

“They safely carried out a controlled explosion.”

The bomb squad was called out to Sandwich Bay to dispose of the object
The bomb squad was called out to Sandwich Bay to dispose of the object

A cordon was set up around the shell while the Ministry of Defence bomb team carried out a controlled explosion while ensuring those nearby were safe.

A spokesman for HM Coastguard Deal, which was called to the site, said: “Deal Coastguard Rescue Team set up a cordon after a report of suspected ordnance on the beach at Sandwich Bay at about 8.45am on 15 February.

“An Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit was sent and the object was made safe with a controlled detonation at about midday.

“Kent Police was informed.”

Photos show the rust-coloured object sticking out of the sand, covered in rock, shells and debris.

The 'bomb' was found on Sandwich Bay this morning
The 'bomb' was found on Sandwich Bay this morning

It is not the first time an explosive has been discovered and blown up in Kent.

In June 2022, a boy picked up one on Leyesdown Beach and showed it to his mother, not realising how dangerous the object could be.

As soon as the item was identified, the police were called and the shore was evacuated.

At Sandwich Bay in September 2020, at least five “World War Two bombs” washed up on the shingle.

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