Yesterday evening, Littlehampton Coastguard swiftly responded to a potential threat on the beach after receiving a report from Arun Council Foreshore Officers. Concerns were raised about a suspicious item that was suspected to be ordnance, leading to the closure of the beach and a collaborative effort to ensure public safety.
Upon receiving the alert, the Coastguard and Foreshore Officers worked to establish a safety cordon and secure the area, including parts of the promenade at Littlehampton’s East Beach. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts were summoned to assess the item. Following careful deliberation, it was determined that the suspect item was likely a live naval shell dating back to World War Two, prompting the decision to conduct a controlled explosion for the sake of public safety.
At precisely 20:40, the naval shell was safely detonated, ensuring that the surrounding area would no longer pose a threat. Confirmation of the area’s safety was provided by the Navy at 20:45, allowing the cordon to be lifted and normalcy to be restored. Littlehampton Coastguard expressed their gratitude to the public for their patience and cooperation throughout the operation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the instructions provided by Coastguard and Foreshore Officers.
It is crucial to understand that “ordnance” encompasses various types of military weaponry, including bombs, missiles, and artillery shells, often found washed up on beaches. Identifying potentially hazardous items is not always straightforward, as their appearance can be deceptive. To ensure personal safety, it is strongly advised never to touch or move items that resemble ordnance. If an item seems suspicious, it is best to trust your instincts and refrain from any contact.
In such situations, maintaining a safe distance and promptly dialing emergency services should be the immediate course of action. Contact the Coastguard by calling 999 and provide them with the necessary details to enable a swift and effective response.
