An unexploded ordnance that evacuated a Devon street in the run-up to England’s opening World Cup game was found inside an attic.
Devon and Cornwall Police were informed of a suspected unexploded ordnance located in a property in Pilton, Barnstaple, on Wednesday, June 17.
The Royal Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team attended, as some residents were asked to leave their homes.
Bravo Squadron Dive Team 1, deployed from HMNB Devonport, said 'a number of suspicious items were found' and were found to be inert.
Police confirmed that the item had been safely removed from the attic, and residents were able to return.
A local told Devon Live that they saw “six or seven police cars” in Pilton Street at around 8.30pm.
Another said her mum was evacuated from her home by an officer; further reports added that parts of the road near the fish and chip shop were closed to traffic.
Barnstaple Police informed the public at around 9.30pm that the item had been disposed of and thanked them for their patience.
In a statement provided by Devon and Cornwall Police this morning, they said: “Police were informed of a suspected unexploded ordnance located in an attic of a property in Pilton, Barnstaple, yesterday afternoon (Wednesday 17 June).
“The Royal Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team were informed and attended and the item was safely removed.
“A local evacuation around the property was carried out while this took place. Residents were able to return once the device was safely removed.”
A spokesperson from the Bravo Squadron said: “During a house clearance a number of suspicious items were found. These were checked by the team with our diagnostic equipment, and all were found to be inert. The Devonport team returned to base and the D&C police lifted the cordon. “As always, Bravo Squadron appreciate the vigilance of the public and the efficiency of the Police in calling us to Pilton and safely resolving this incident.”