Emergency services were called to Irvine Harbour after a 19 inch ‘bomb’ was discovered in the sand.
The lengthy device, which was marked ‘do not touch - call police, was flagged to the Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team shortly before 7am on Wednesday.
The brave crew rushed to the scene and quickly put a cordon in place while sending photographs of the suspected ordnance to the Royal Navy at Faslane.
The EOD unit was swiftly deployed before carrying out a controlled explosion nearby.
Members of the public are being reminded to stay vigilant when walking on Scotland’s coast - particularly after stormy weather.
Sharing images of the shocking find, the Scots coastguard team said: “We called out shortly after 7am this morning (Wednesday) following reports of possible ordnance washed up on the beach near the entrance to Irvine Harbour.
“The team responded immediately with an accurate location of the suspect item passed by CGOC Belfast Coastguard as on the beach on the northern side of Irvine Harbour.
“The team utilised the 4x4 capabilities of their Coastguard Rescue Vehicle to enter the beach at Stevenston Point and made their way to the mouth of Irvine Harbour.
“The object in question was quickly located with a safety cordon setup.
“Images of the item were obtained and digitally transmitted to CGOC Belfast Coastguard for onward submission to Royal Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) based at Faslane.
“The Royal Navy EOD unit were deployed to assist with the team securing the scene until their arrival.
“Following their on scene assessment, EOD conducted a controlled explosion to destroy the object with the team supporting with an expanded safety cordon.
“We would urge everyone to follow these simple pieces of advice if they find something on the beach which they believe could be a maritime distress flare or possible ordnance:
· Do not touch or move the item
· Keep a safe distance at all times
· Dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard immediately
· Provide as much information as possible including exact location.
“It is not uncommon for suspect items to be washed up along the coast especially following spells of bad weather.
“If you are venturing for a walk along the coast for exercise in line with the current COVID restrictions then please take care, stay safe and if in doubt – get us out.”
The Royal Navy have been contacted for comment.
Police Scotland confirmed they were not called.
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