Two WW2 bombs safely removed in Devon

Cordons lifted in Exmouth and Plymouth

Cordons in Exmouth and Plymouth have been lifted after two World War Two bombs were safely dealt with.

Around 2,500 properties were affected in the East Devon town, with thousands of residents and their pets forced to leave their homes for a second night. 

The device was discovered lodged in the town’s marina and has been moved to the seabed, where it is due to be destroyed in a controlled explosion later this morning.

Residents who were evacuated to the LED Leisure Centre said there had been a strong sense of community throughout the operation.

David Reed, Conservative MP for Exmouth and Exeter East has praised all of the agencies which came together during the past 36 hours: “They have come together to keep us all safe.

“It’s been really humbling to see the communities come together.”

Meanwhile in Plymouth, hundreds of households have been able to return home after a 55kg World War Two bomb was safely removed. The device, believed to date back to the Blitz, was discovered on a building site between Bath Street and Martin Street in the Milbay area.

Specialist X ray equipment was brought in yesterday afternoon to assess the ordnance. 

Police said the bomb was removed using the safest and least disruptive method, with residents living within 150 metres of the convoy route asked to temporarily leave their homes.

The bomb was later destroyed by a controlled detonation at sea.