A Royal Navy bomb disposal team has carried out a controlled detonation of hundreds of rounds of ammunition found in the wreckage of a Second World War aircraft on Cleethorpes beach.
The wreckage, belonging to an RAF Bristol Beaufighter that crashed during the war, has become more exposed than usual in recent days, drawing public interest and prompting safety concerns.
Cleethorpes Coastguard had previously warned the public to stay away from the site due to hazardous mud conditions and the presence of potentially live ammunition.
In a recent update, the Coastguard confirmed that more than 400 rounds had been destroyed to help secure the area.
A spokesperson cautioned that dangers still remain, stating: “It is still unknown what was actually carried on the aircraft, and there are no guarantees that there is no more left at the location. It is not safe to try and excavate to look for more munitions and therefore remains extremely dangerous if tampered with!”
Despite repeated warnings, people have reportedly continued to venture out to the crash site.
The spokesperson added: “We do not have the authority to stop people walking out to the wreckage, and despite the ‘Safety Advice’ we posted, it appears that people are still walking out to the crash site!”
“Please be aware that the route to the site, which we will never reveal (despite being asked a number of times) has become extremely dangerous due the way the mud in the area has spread over the last few months. There are a number of large creeks along Cleethorpes Beach. These can be very deep and wide, and the under currents are very strong. By trying to cross them, you’ll be putting your life at risk by possibly being washed out into the river!”
They concluded: “This not only puts your life at risk but also those who get called out to rescue you, i.e., the Coastguard and RNLI crews. We respectfully ask again that if you do ignore our safety advice and walk to the crash site that you ‘DO NOT’ post footage on any social media sites and not to reveal the location, as you will potentially put others at risk if they decide to try and find the wreckage.”
(Image: Cleethorpes Coastguard)
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.