Bomb squad is called to beach over metal object

THE bomb squad were called to Holy Island off the Northumberland coast at the weekend after a “suspicious” item was discovered on the beach.

The Coastguard teams from Holy Island and Berwick helped to respond and cordon off ‘Jenny Bells Well’ beach on Saturday evening after the suspicious object was found.

A member of the public called in the object, which ended up being a harmless piece of metal.

When the Holy Island Coastguard team arrived, they first sent photographs to specialists who couldn’t determine the identity of the object and needed to see it in person.

So a cordon was set up with the assistance of the Berwick unit, staying overnight and observing the area until British Army Explosive Ordinance Disposal Officers arrived.

When the soldiers arrived, they declared the area safe after a quick inspection.

The items were deemed to be scrap metal which posed no risk to life.

A statement from

Coastguard Holy Island said: “The first informant did the right thing by calling it in, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

“If you see an object of concern on any of our coastlines, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

“Thank you to all emergency services involved as it was a long day for all and thank you to the general public for abiding by the cordon and keeping a safe distance.”

A Berwick Coastguard spokesperson added: “The member of the public did exactly the right thing in contacting HM Coastguard.

“The safety of the general public is paramount, and although there was never any danger, it is important to be thorough in our investigations to ensure no one comes to any harm.

“Thank you to the residents of Holy Island for your patience and understanding whilst we had a small area of the island cordoned off for most of today.

“If you see anyone in danger on our cliffs, coastline or on the water, always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”