A suspected World War Two bomb has been found on Formby Tip

Jul 17, 20182 min read

A suspected World War Two bomb has been found at Formby Tip this morning, Tuesday 17th July. Please avoid the area until it is made safe. Please do not use mobile phones in the area. Please be aware that the garage might have to close until the situation is sorted. Police, Merseyside Fire & Rescue and bomb squad are all in attendance.

A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: "Emergency services are in Formby following the report of a mortar being found at a site on Altcar Road. A cordon is in place from Stephensons Way to the Formby Bypass and we thank the public for their patience while we deal with the incident. There is no risk to the public."

Merseyside Police closed the Formby Household Waste Recycling Centre, on Altcar Road, this morning after the World War Two mortar shell was discovered and a cordon placed around the facility.

Staff have also been evacuated from the site. Officers also closed Altcar Road between the Formby Bypass and Stephenson Way while an investigation into the safety of the explosive is carried out.

According to the Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority, the shell was discovered in an embankment. A spokesman said: "The police are investigating a World War II mortar shell which has been found. They've discovered it in the closing bank so they're checking it now to make sure it's all OK and we should be back open soon."

A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "A cordon has been put in place after the discovery but that there is no risk to members of the public."

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service sent three fire engines to the scene. The service was called at 9.12am and arrived on scene at 9.23am. A spokesman said: “Both ourselves and Merseyside Police are in attendance. Police have set up a cordon and are currently evacuating the area. It is a suspected mortar device but at the moment we are still investigating. Police are leading on the scene and we are preparing to leave shortly”.