Esher Common closed due to WW1 unexploded ordnance finds

Esher Common has been temporarily closed after the discovery of WW1 mortars. A member of the public stumbled upon the suspicious items and immediately alerted the police, prompting an emergency response.

What was found at Esher Common?

Upon inspection, a Ministry of Defence (MOD) bomb disposal team identified the devices as British-made Stokes mortars. These WW1 mortar bombs were safely transported to a secure location where a controlled explosion was carried out to neutralise the threat.

The police have urged the public to remain vigilant and to follow strict safety procedures if they encounter any suspicious items. If you come across a potential UXO, do not touch it. Instead, move to a safe distance and immediately contact the authorities.

How dangerous are WW1 mortar bombs?

Despite being over a century old, WW1 mortar bombs remain highly dangerous. Unexploded ordnance can still contain volatile explosives that may detonate if disturbed. Here’s why WW1 UXO is particularly hazardous:

• Unstable Mechanisms: Many of these weapons were fired but failed to detonate as intended. This means their fuses remain live and can be triggered by the slightest movement or impact.
• Fragility Due to Age: Over decades, exposure to the elements degrades the materials, making these explosives even more unpredictable and susceptible to accidental detonation.
• Submersion Doesn’t Neutralise Explosives: Many people assume that if ordnance has been submerged in water, it is no longer dangerous. However, high explosives are often water-resistant and can remain live indefinitely.

Why was UXO found in Esher Common?

Esher Common, like many areas across the UK, may have been used for military training or munitions storage in the past. Over time, buried or discarded ordnance can resurface due to natural erosion, construction, or recreational activity. Similar discoveries have been made in rural and coastal areas across the country, highlighting the ongoing risk posed by historical UXO.

What to do if you find a suspicious object

If you ever come across a suspected piece of UXO, follow these steps:

• Do not touch or move it – UXO can be extremely unstable and may detonate if disturbed.
• Mark the location (if safe to do so) – Use a recognisable landmark to help authorities locate it.
• Move to a safe distance – Move away from the area and ensure others do the same.
• Call the police immediately – They will coordinate with the appropriate bomb disposal experts.

How Brimstone UXO can help

At Brimstone UXO, we specialise in UXO risk mitigation, offering a comprehensive range of services including:

• UXO Risk Assessments
• Intrusive and Non-Intrusive Surveys
• On-Site UXO Support
• UXO Clearance and Disposal

If you’re unsure which service you need, our online UXO tool can guide you to the best solution, or you can contact our expert commercial team for tailored advice.

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