Lucky escape for youngster who picked up live hand grenade on Cornish beach
The device discovered at Sennen on Friday (6th August) was destroyed in a controlled explosion
Last updated 11th Aug 2021
Coastguards say a youngster has had a lucky escape after picking up what turned out to be a live hand grenade in Cornwall.
Lifeguards raised the alarm after the incident at Sennen on Friday afternoon (6th August).
The beach had to be evacuated and cordons were put in place.
A Royal Navy Bomb Disposal Team from Plymouth were called in and later destroyed the device in a controlled explosion.
Falmouth Coastguard said: "A young person had a lucky escape on Friday afternoon when the item that they picked up on Sennen Cove Beach turned out to be a live hand grenade.
"RNLI Lifeguards at Sennen Cove alerted us to the possible ordnance just before 2pm on Friday afternoon.
"Assisted by Land's End Coastguard Search & Rescue Team, a cordon was established to ensure the safety of beach-goers whilst awaiting the arrival of the Royal Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit from Plymouth.
"Once on scene, EOD undertook a controlled detonation of the device".
Land's End Coastguard Rescue Team said: "The team were tasked today to support the RNLI Penwith Lifeguards at Sennen to evacuate an incredibly busy beach because suspected ordnance was found in the rocks.
"The Royal Navy Mine and Bomb Disposal Unit were deployed from Plymouth and made the device safe by detonating in situ.
"Thanks to everyone who left the beach and helped to make the area safe".
What should I do if I find something suspicious on the beach?
Falmouth Coastguard shared the following safety advice:
'Rough seas can often cause items to wash up or be uncovered around the coast.
'Please remember that ordnance comes in many different shapes and sizes and that if you find something suspicious on the beach, please do not touch it, move it or take it home:
đź“’ Make a note of the exact location of the item
✏️ Take notes on it's size, shape and description
📱 Call 999 and report it to the Coastguard'.
The advice if you see someone in difficulty near the coast is to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.