Former bombing range in Lincolnshire yields a practice bomb

A significant piece of British military history has been uncovered by a member of the public using a metal detector on a farm in Alkborough, Lincolnshire. The object, later identified as part of a World War II practice bomb, was reported to Humberside Police. Upon investigation, officers were joined by a Royal Logistics Corps bomb disposal team, who confirmed that the item was a WWII RAF training munition.

This discovery shines a light on the potential dangers of unexploded ordnance (UXO) that still exist in the UK today, often hidden beneath the surface of former military sites.

Alkborough Flats: A key site in WWII training operations

Alkborough Flats, located in the heart of Lincolnshire, was used during World War II as a bombing range for RAF crews. Primarily utilised by British aircrews from RAF Elsham Wolds, the range played a pivotal role in training military personnel for precision bombing during the war. The site included a chalk marker and two observation posts positioned on a ridge, allowing crews to accurately aim their practice bombs.

During the war, RAF Bomber Command experienced rapid expansion, and American bomber squadrons joined the effort. As a result, numerous temporary bombing ranges were established across the UK to support training for the influx of new crews. These sites were often hastily constructed, and many remain undiscovered or forgotten today, buried under the soil.

What are wartime RAF practice bombs?

RAF practice bombs from WWII are among the most commonly found unexploded ordnance (UXO) items across the UK. These relatively small and seemingly harmless devices were used extensively at military airfields and former bombing ranges, yet many were not retrieved after failing to function as intended.

The typical practice bomb used during the war was designed to simulate the effects of a live bomb, providing pilots and crews with essential training in target accuracy. Flash-type practice bombs, often encountered today, contain a 1lb spotting charge. While small in size, these charges are still considered hazardous due to their explosive nature.

These practice bombs were filled with a mixture of gunpowder and magnesium. When detonated, they produced a brilliant white flash, allowing aircrews to assess their accuracy in real-time. Despite their relatively minor size, these devices were often left behind when they failed to detonate, leading to an ongoing UXO risk in areas once used for training.

The ongoing threat of WWII UXO

Despite the passage of time, unexploded WWII ordnance still poses a significant threat, especially on sites that were once used as military training grounds. The UK is home to many former RAF airfields and bombing ranges that were used throughout the war. Many of these areas were later repurposed for civilian use, but the potential for UXO remains a serious risk.

In fact, RAF practice bombs are among the most frequently encountered types of unexploded ordnance in the UK. Brimstone UXO, a leading provider of unexploded ordnance risk management, frequently encounters these types of devices during operations at historic military sites. For example, during a Search and Clear operation at the former RAF Hucknall airfield in July 2017, Brimstone safely recovered 15 practice bombs, ensuring the safety of the area for future use.

How to mitigate the risk of UXO on your site

If you suspect that your site could be located on a former military training ground or bombing range, it’s important to seek professional guidance. UXO can remain hidden for decades, but with the right expertise, the risk can be effectively managed.

As the UK’s only government-assured UXO company, Brimstone UXO provides comprehensive unexploded ordnance risk management services, both in the UK and internationally. Our team of experts is equipped to safely identify, clear, and manage UXO risks, ensuring the safety of your site and its surroundings.

Whether you are involved in construction, land development, or any project on land that may have been used for military purposes, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough UXO risk assessment. Brimstone UXO can help guide you through the process, minimising potential threats and ensuring the safety of workers and the public.

At Brimstone UXO, we are committed to keeping our clients and the public informed about the dangers of unexploded ordnance and the necessary precautions to take. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube for the latest updates, tips, and insights on UXO safety. We also encourage you to explore our website to learn more about our services and how we can help mitigate UXO risks on your site.