Bomb squad called out to a home

People were evacuated from their homes after reports of a suspicious item being found in Bracklesham Bay.

It was reported that homes on Beech Avenue and Garden Avenue were evacuated by police officers and a number of neighbouring roads were blocked on Wednesday, February 21.

Sussex Police issued a statement after reports that an ‘unexploded bomb’ was found in a garden. A spokesperson said: “A warrant was carried out in Bracklesham Close, Bracklesham Bay, and a 47-year-old man from Sussex was arrested on suspicion of inciting racial hatred.

"During a search of the property officers found an item of concern. As a result, the Explosive Ordnance Unit (EOD) was called and a cordon was put in place. They have assessed the item and have confirmed that it poses no risk to the public.

“Thank you to the public for their patience whist this assessment was carried out.”

Margaret Testa, 87, was evacuated during the incident. She said: “"Loads of big vans came out around the corner with bomb disposal units on them and the road was completely closed. The police did find something but I don't know what it was, we weren't told.”

When speaking about the ordeal, she said she ‘was not worried’ and ‘quite restful’.

She added: “When we were allowed to come back at around 3.30pm, I was fine actually. However, I did wake up in the night thinking about it. I thought thank goodness it didn't go off.

"It could’ve ended terribly. Whilst it was on the other end of the road, it’s not the longest road in the world.”