Houses shake after enormous bang as metal detectorists find unexploded WW2 grenade

Residents described how their houses shook after an enormous bang as metal detectorists discovered an unexploded WW2 bomb.

North Yorkshire Police were alerted by the public to a possible ‘unexploded bomb’ while they were using a metal detector on the outskirts of Harrogate.

Specialist officers were called to the scene, with what appeared to be a well-aged grenade laying on the ground.

Police confirmed that an unexploded World War Two grenade had been found – and a 100-metre cordon was put in place.

Posting on its Harrogate police page, a spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said: “Please don't worry if you hear a loud noise.

North Yorkshire Police were alerted b the public to a possible ‘unexploded bomb’ while they were using a metal detector on the outskirts of Harrogate (Getty Images)

“In about half an hour you may hear a loud bang BUT be rest assured the noise is likely to be from a controlled explosion.

“Earlier this morning a member of the public contacted us after they found an item, they believed, could have been an unexploded grenade from WW2.

“They were using a metal detector in a rural area on the outskirts of Harrogate at the time of the find.

“A 100-metre cordon has been put in place there has been no need to evacuate homes or businesses due to the rural location.

“Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians are on their way to the scene to make the area safe.”