6 unexploded wartime bombs discovered on farmland near Hertford

Six unexploded wartime bombs, believed to have been dropped during the Second World War, were unearthed on farmland near Hertford by an amateur archaeologist using a metal detector. The discovery, made on 3rd January 2017, sheds light on the enduring risks posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) and the importance of handling such finds with care.

The bombs, found on Salisbury estate land, are thought to date back to 1944. They were quickly reported to East Herts Police at approximately 3:15 pm. A specialist bomb disposal unit, alongside police officers, attended the scene and confirmed that the devices were German in origin. The unit safely removed the bombs for controlled disposal.

The historical context for the wartime bombs

William Ashley, a resident of the adjacent Monks Green Farm, first noticed the bombs on the ground and promptly alerted authorities. Reflecting on the discovery, he shared: “I was a bit nervous when I realised what had been found and took care not to kick it with my foot. The police were excellent throughout and had the bombs under control in no time. The bombs were spent, but they could have been otherwise.”

The connection between this find and a local wartime event is significant. A 1998 article by Ashley’s father, Peter, detailed the destruction caused by a German V1 flying bomb in 1944. This missile, nicknamed the “Doodlebug” by the Allies, destroyed a nearby cottage and caravan, tragically killing resident Mrs. Dench and injuring her family members. Miraculously, a baby born on D-Day survived the blast unscathed.

The recently discovered bombs were unearthed just 20 meters from where the cottage once stood. Ashley believes they may have fallen during the same attack described in his father’s article. “Today, nothing is left of the cottage, but these bombs act as a reminder of what happened here and the many others who lost their lives during World War Two,” he added.

The importance of UXO risk management

This discovery of wartime bombs underscores the importance of public awareness and professional expertise when dealing with unexploded ordnance. Historic bombs can remain buried for decades, often surfacing during construction, farming, or archaeological activities. If you encounter a suspected UXO, follow these critical safety steps:

Do not touch or move the object. Even seemingly inert devices can still pose a serious risk.

Clear the area. Ensure others stay at a safe distance to minimise potential harm.

Contact local authorities immediately. Trained professionals can assess and safely manage the situation.

Brimstone UXO: your partner in risk mitigation

Brimstone UXO specialises in identifying, assessing, and mitigating the risks associated with unexploded ordnance. Our team, composed of highly trained experts from the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, provides tailored solutions to meet the needs of clients across the UK and around the world. From risk assessments to controlled disposals, we ensure the safety of communities and projects alike.

For more information about our UXO risk management services, visit our website or contact our Commercial Team for an informal discussion. Your safety is our priority.

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