Bomb found on Gwynedd beach to be detonated today

A World War-era bomb discovered on a North Wales beach is set to be destroyed in a controlled explosion this morning. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area as disposal teams work to neutralise the threat.

Safety Measures in Place at Gwynedd beach

North Wales Police have closed a section of Porth Neigwl (Hell’s Mouth) near Abersoch, enforcing a 100-metre cordon around the site to ensure public safety. The unexploded ordnance (UXO) was found at approximately 4 PM on Sunday by a local dog walker, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.

A specialist bomb disposal squad has attended Gwynedd beach, while coastguard and police officers remain on-site to secure the area until the Ministry of Defence (MoD) completes the disposal operation. The controlled detonation is scheduled to take place later today, ensuring that the item is safely neutralised without further risk to the public.

Where Was the Device Found?

The ordnance was discovered near the water’s edge by Nigel Matthews, a resident of Abersoch, while out on a walk with his wife and their three dogs. Recalling the moment, he told the Daily Post:

“I was walking along the beach with my wife and our three dogs when I saw something unusual at the water’s edge. I went over to it and immediately thought, ‘That’s a bomb.’ I called the police straight away.”

Concerned that the rough sea might dislodge and carry the device back into the water, Mr. Matthews decided to move it to a safer location further up Gwynedd beach before alerting authorities. He also noted that the object, which measured approximately 14 inches in length, had markings in French.

The Ongoing UXO Threat

This incident on Gwynedd beach serves as another reminder of the ongoing threat posed by historical unexploded ordnance. Decades after World War I and World War II, UXO continues to be uncovered across the UK, particularly in coastal areas, construction sites, and former military training grounds.

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