Rothbury WWII bomb scare

Homes and shops were evacuated in Rothbury yesterday after an unexploded WWII bomb was discovered in a river. The incident highlights the ongoing presence of unexploded ordnance (UXO) across the UK and the need for careful management when such devices are found.

Swift response ensures public safety

Police were alerted to the presence of the device near the main bridge in Rothbury shortly before 11:00 GMT. As a precaution, Northumbria Police established a 100m cordon around the site and closed the bridge to both traffic and pedestrians. This swift action ensured public safety while specialists were called to the scene.

The bomb was subsequently removed by disposal experts from Catterick, and all roads have since reopened. A police spokesperson stated: “We worked quickly to secure the area and called in the appropriate disposal experts to handle the device. We’re pleased to report there were no injuries or further risks to the community.”

Discovery in Rothbury by routine inspection

Stephen Bridgett, who represents Rothbury on Northumberland County Council, provided additional insight into the discovery. He explained: “From what I understand, one of the regular checks on the bridge that are carried out by a company on behalf of the council discovered what looks like an old explosive device. The diver that found it is ex-forces and has seen a lot of things like this before and alerted the proper authorities.”

The discovery underscores the importance of routine inspections and the value of training and expertise in identifying potential UXO hazards. Without prompt action and professional intervention, such discoveries could pose significant risks to local communities.

A Legacy of WWII

Many UXO devices discovered across the UK date back to the Second World War, when extensive bombing campaigns and military activity left a lasting impact. Rivers, coastlines, and construction sites are common locations for such discoveries due to shifting sediment and erosion over time.

Incidents like this serve as a reminder of the ongoing legacy of war and the importance of public awareness. Anyone who suspects they’ve found a potential UXO should immediately alert authorities and avoid handling the object.

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