Incendiary event in Cornwall, Porthpean Beach, Saint Austell area, United Kingdom on Tue 20th October 2020

Authorities in Cornwall have issued a warning after a dangerous phosphorus flare was detonated on a beach. The flare was found on Porthpean Beach, near St Austell, on 20 October. Its discovery prompted a response from emergency services, including the Royal Navy’s bomb disposal unit. The flare contained phosphorus, which can cause life-threatening injuries if activated. Credit: St Austell Coastguard The beach was subsequently cordoned off and the device exploded. A spokesperson for St Austell Coastguard said more of the devices may wash up on nearby beaches in the coming weeks, and warned members of the public to call 999 if they see one. A member of the public called 999 to report a suspicious object on Porthpean Beach. St Austell Coastguard team attended to cordon off the area. The Royal Navy EOD team from Plymouth came to destroy the phosphorus marker flare.