Artillery shell fished out of a canal in Northamptonshire

A large WWII-era artillery shell was recently discovered in the canal in Braunston, a village in Northamptonshire. The shell, which was fished out using a magnetic fishing technique, has since sparked a response from local authorities, including police and Army bomb disposal experts. The discovery temporarily shut down the Braunston tunnel along the canal while the situation was investigated.

How did an artillery shell end up in a canal?

Unexploded ordnance (UXO), like this artillery shell, can find its way into various locations for a number of reasons, including disposal, accidents, or simply being lost over time. In this case, the shell could have been discarded in the canal after WWII, or it could have landed there during the conflict and remained undiscovered for decades. It’s not uncommon for unexploded WWII munitions to be unearthed in unexpected places, even as much as 80 years after the war ended.

The item found was identified as a 4.5-inch anti-aircraft (AA) round, which would have been a significant part of Britain’s defence system during the war. These shells, containing up to 2kg of high explosive, were typically fired from the 4.5-inch Quick-Firing (QF) gun. This weapon was widely used during the Blitz to defend cities from German bombers. The presence of grooves at the base of the shell suggests it had been fired, making it likely to have originated from an AA battery located within 15 kilometres of Braunston.

The risk of unexploded WWII munitions

During WWII, Britain’s anti-aircraft guns fired thousands of shells to intercept incoming German bombers. These shells were fitted with barometric fuses, designed to explode at a specific altitude. However, if the fuse failed, the projectile would fall to the ground, sometimes remaining dormant for years or even decades.

Over the years, bomb disposal units in the UK have dealt with thousands of unexploded AA shells, a testament to the scale of the risks that still exist today. While the discovery of UXO is rare, the potential for danger remains, particularly in areas that were once heavily bombed or used for military operations during wartime.

What to do if you discover UXO

If you encounter an unexploded shell or any other type of UXO, it is crucial that you do not attempt to move it. Inform local authorities immediately, as they have the training and resources to deal with such situations safely. Authorities may call in bomb disposal units to investigate and secure the site.

Magnetic fishing, like the method used in Braunston, is a popular hobby, but it can be hazardous when it comes into contact with unexploded ordnance. Enthusiasts are encouraged to exercise caution and report any suspicious finds to ensure public safety.

UXO risk mitigation: protecting your projects

At Brimstone UXO, we understand the potential risks posed by unexploded ordnance. With years of expertise in UXO risk mitigation, we can support your project to ensure safety, whether it’s a construction site, industrial area, or any location where UXO could be a concern. Our team uses advanced techniques and equipment to locate, assess, and safely dispose of unexploded ordnance, minimising the risk to your workforce and property.

Don’t leave your safety to chance – contact Brimstone UXO today for professional risk mitigation services tailored to your needs.

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