Second World War shell found at Ipswich port exploded at Essex army range
Bomb disposal experts exploded the device in a field. Stock picture - Credit: Contributed
Bomb disposal teams were sent to the Port of Ipswich after a Second World War shell was discovered in dredged up sand.
Officers were called to the port’s westbound terminal at around 12pm today following reports workers had discovered the device in a sandy bunker.
Shortly after they arrived bomb disposal teams from Colchester were called and they were at the scene by 1.35pm.
The device – which experts say was a Second World War vintage 18lb HE shell – was recovered and later destroyed in a controlled explosion at Fingringhoe Ranges.
An army spokesman said: “Destroying the shell was the safest thing to do in the circumstances, as old ammunition can be quite unstable.
“We would encourage the public to raise the alarm if they do have concerns about any suspect items they find and not to touch them.
“It is better to be safe than sorry.”
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Representatives for the port, which is run by the Association of British Ports (ABP), declined to comment.
