WW1 mortar bomb found in a New Forest pond

A routine walk in the New Forest turned into a dramatic discovery when local resident Carrie Hills and her friend stumbled upon an unexploded WW1 mortar bomb in a pond. The incident highlights the persistent risk posed by historical unexploded ordnance (UXO), even in seemingly peaceful areas like the New Forest.

Upon discovering the mortar, Ms Hills immediately contacted the police, who swiftly alerted a Royal Navy bomb disposal unit based in Portsmouth. The experts confirmed the object was a British-made Stokes Mortar, dating back to WWI, and promptly established a safety cordon around the area.

The experts later informed Ms Hills that had she accidentally dropped the mortar bomb in a particular way, it could have exploded, resulting in deadly consequences. Fortunately, the device was safely disposed of in a controlled explosion, ensuring that the public remained safe from potential harm.

Why are WW1 mortar bombs still dangerous today?

Though over 100 years old, WWI-era mortar bombs remain highly dangerous, posing significant risks even when found in seemingly benign locations such as ponds or fields. Mortar bombs, particularly those that have been fired but failed to detonate, present an ongoing hazard due to their sensitive and deteriorated mechanisms.

Mortar bombs are designed to be launched with a specific sequence of events that triggers their detonation. When fired, the mortar bomb is dropped base-first into the launcher, where the impact activates the propellant charge, propelling the bomb into the air. The force of this impact also ignites a delayed-action fuse that eventually triggers the bomb’s main explosive charge once it reaches its target area.

If a mortar bomb is found unfired, like the one discovered in the New Forest, any small shock or jolt, such as a dropped impact, can set off the detonating mechanism. This is particularly dangerous for items that have been exposed to the elements for decades, as time can weaken the structure of the bomb, making it more sensitive to impacts.

Submerging high-explosive ordnance in water, as in the case of the New Forest pond find, does not render it harmless. In fact, it can add to the risks. The water can corrode and weaken the bomb, increasing the likelihood of accidental detonation when disturbed.

The fact that these hazardous items continue to be discovered underscores the importance of proper UXO awareness and the need for professional disposal.

The dangers of UXO in the UK

The UK is still home to thousands of unexploded World War I and II ordnance, much of which is hidden beneath the ground or in bodies of water. Many of these items remain undetected for decades, often unearthed during construction, agricultural work, or even recreational activities like walking or fishing.

While the majority of these finds occur on land, coastal and underwater areas are also hotspots for discovering UXO, especially in locations that were heavily targeted during the world wars. For example, coastal regions were often used for military training and as bombing ranges, and many items of UXO may remain submerged in shallow waters for years.

Even though the risks of UXO may seem remote, it is important to remember that these items still possess significant destructive power. As the New Forest incident illustrates, an encounter with unexploded ordnance can have deadly consequences if not handled properly.

How to safely deal with UXO finds

If you encounter a suspected UXO, like this WW1 mortar, whether on land or in water, it is crucial to follow safety protocols and avoid disturbing the device. Never attempt to touch, move, or investigate the object yourself. Always contact local authorities, such as the police, and ensure that professionals, like bomb disposal experts, are alerted to assess the situation.

In the case of WW1 mortar bombs (and WW2 mortars), the explosive contents can be unstable and subject to detonation with even the slightest movement. Only trained professionals with the appropriate tools and knowledge should attempt to handle or dispose of such items.

Brimstone UXO: professional UXO risk assessment and disposal services

At Brimstone UXO, we understand the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance, including the risks from WW1 and WW2-era weapons. We offer professional risk assessments, UXO detection, and disposal services nationwide. Whether you’re involved in a construction project, agricultural work, or any other activity near potential UXO sites, we are here to help ensure your site is free from hidden dangers.

With three offices across the UK, our team is ready to provide bespoke solutions to manage UXO risks. We can conduct site surveys, carry out detailed risk assessments, and handle the safe disposal of any found ordnance, regardless of size or location. Our experts have years of experience in dealing with the challenges of unexploded ordnance, ensuring your project stays on track and your team remains safe.

If you suspect that your site may be at risk from UXO, don’t hesitate to contact our team today. Our experts can guide you through the process and provide the support you need to mitigate potential hazards effectively. For more information on our services, visit our website or reach out to our dedicated commercial team.

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