Hastings half marathon cancelled following East Sussex explosives discovery
The running route wasn't deemed safe
Last updated 23rd Mar 2025
Organisers of the Hasting's half marathon cancelled the event planned for today (Sunday 23rd March) after explosive chemicals were found in a house in St Leonards on Thursday (20th March).
They announced in a statement on social media that after advice from the police and partners, they needed to cancel the run to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
An Explosive Ordnance Disposal team removed the chemicals found and carried out a controlled burn in a skip near the sea wall on Saturday (22nd March).
East Sussex fire officers will also test an extra 500 cannisters that were found containing "unknown chemicals".
A 28-year-old man who was arrested in connection with the incident has since been detained under the Mental Health Act.
A Sussex police spokesperson said: "While fire officers continue to test the remaining chemicals found at a house on the A259 Marina, the threat to public safety has significantly reduced.
"Following specialist advice, the cordon has been shortened
"This will allow many of the 80 adults and children, who have been displaced since Thursday, to return home. Preventing harm and protecting public safety has been the priority of all agencies involved throughout.
"Hastings Borough Council will continue to support the remaining households unable to return while testing continues close to their homes.
"The cordon will now cover a section of Marina towards the seafront and part of the A259 will remain closed. This will continue to be reviewed.
"People can expect a visible police presence over the coming days as Sussex Police continues its investigation into the circumstances."