Crane needed to remove debris from blast area

Large metal objects on roofs near bomb site

Work is continuing through Sunday afternoon to assess the extent of damage to properties caused by the detonation of a World War Two bomb on Glenthorne Road, near the University of Exeter campus.

The blast at 6.10 p.m. on Saturday was heard for miles around, and has caused a massive crater in the private land where building contractors unearthed it on Friday morning.

The police are warning residents in the central 100-metre exclusion zone that they're unlikely to allowed back home until at least Monday.  That's a possibility for those in the wider 400-metre zone too.

Devon and Cornwall Police say: "It is currently impossible to predict whether critical safety assessment work will conclude today.

"Regrettably, a number of properties predominantly within the 100-metre cordon, have suffered structural damage including broken windows and cracked walls. In addition, debris, including large metal objects, were thrown in the blast, some of which landed on nearby roofs, which require the use of a crane to remove.

"Fencing is being erected this afternoon around those buildings deemed unsafe. This is approximately in line with the 100-metre cordon. Residents who live within this cordon, will not be able to return home this evening."

Most residents from the wider 400-metre cordon are said to be staying with friends or family. People in hotels are being allowed to stay there another night.

Police will provide another update around 8.30 p.m. to those in the wider area to update residents in the wider cordon who may just possibly will be able to return on Sunday.

Exeter University is communicating directly with its 1,400 halls of resident students who have been evacuated and provided alternative accommodation. Students have been informed that they are not returning today.

The council helpline has been extended until 7 p.m. on Sunday today for evacuated residents needing support or advice. It's 0345 155 1015.