Bomb Squad Called To Bognor Regis To Remove Explosive Device

A beach has been cordoned off and bomb squads are on site after an explosive device was discovered.

The military along with emergency services are working to keep the public safe whilst they deal with the explosive device.  

The wartime bomb is about 6ft long and was found in the water, off Elmer beach, below the high water mark on Saturday morning

A military ordinance disposal team confirmed it is a German World War II sea mine, estimated to weigh about 1000 kilos.

The area on the beach has been cordoned off and work is being carried out to secure the device when tides are low.

Sussex Police warned a number of houses along the seafront to leave their windows open and to use only the rear part of the premises while the device is being dealt with and made safe.

No evacuations have been necessary at this stage.

Chief Superintendent Jane Derrick said:

“We are working to ensure that the public remains safe while this device is safely dealt with by the military ordinance experts.  

“We are following their advice of safe distances and areas within which the public should not go.

“The situation is being kept under careful review and further action to ensure the public remains safe will be taken if necessary.

“In the meantime, we thank the local residents who have been involved so far for their cooperation and their patience.

“We ask other members of the public to avoid the area whether on the beach itself or swimming or sailing offshore.”  

A spokesperson for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said,

“Coastguard teams from Littlehampton and Selsey are helping with a safety cordon and a HM Coastguard will be broadcasting to vessels to keep clear of immediate vicinity of Elmer Beach while military explosives team deal with the ordnance today.”