Excavations near Shute unearthed the device on Wednesday afternoon.
Royal Navy engineers were called to the scene and the shell, believed to be from World War II, was detonated on Strete Gate Beach.
The police wanted to reassure the public any explosion heard in the area on Wednesday night was nothing to be concerned about.
How Torbay Hospital bosses are tackling 'risks'
Poor state of buildings impacting staff and patients
RD&E and North Devon hospital waiting times slashed
It's still one of lengthiest in the country
Bus service changes leave villagers in North Devon stranded
Petition started to reinstate former direct route from Barnstaple to Exeter
Demand for action over Teign sewage spills
'This represents a risk to health for residents and visitors'
Cyclist critically injured in Sidmouth
Man, 20s, airlifted to hospital
Council owed £4 million by its own housing company
But it won't sell Mary Archers for student flats
