A controlled explosion was carried out at an Ayrshire beach after a suspected ordnance was discovered.
Emergency services were called yesterday afternoon after someone discovered a suspect item at Irvine beach.
After an initial assessment by Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team and police, the Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) from the military were drafted into the scene.
A cordon of over 200 metres was set up and the item was destroyed by a controlled explosion.
A spokesperson for Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team said: "The Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team was called out yesterday afternoon alongside Police Scotland following reports of an item believed to be ordnance found on the coastline between Irvine and Barassie.
"The team responded immediately and utilising the team’s two 4x4 Coastguard Rescue Vehicles, were able to quickly get on scene to where the first informant had found the object in question.
"Given the vast expanse of Irvine Beach, the first informant had utilised the What3Words app which assisted Police and Coastguard to quickly find and locate the object.
"As the object was located above the high water mark, Police Scotland contacted the Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) from the military with the team setting up a suitable cordon on the beach to provide a safe working area and to minimise any risk to the public.
"The team remained on scene alongside Police Scotland until the arrival of EOD from the Royal Navy who conducted a controlled explosion of the object where it was found with the team expanding the cordon to over 200m to ensure public safety."
Once the object was disposed of, the cordon was lifted and the emergency services left the scene.
What should you do if you find a suspected ordnance on the beach?
The Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team advise:
- 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
Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team added: "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 just now for exercise in line with the current COVID restrictions then please take care, stay safe and if in doubt – get us out."
