Bomb alert forces evacuation at New Forest waste centre

THE waste recycling depot at Lymington was evacuated and closed off to the public after the discovery of a suspected explosive device.

Police responded to reports a piece of old military ordnance had been found in rubbish brought to Hampshire County Council’s tip at Efford just after 10.30am today (Tuesday).

Staff from operators Veolia were stopping people from entering the centre off the A337 Milford Road while police attended and awaited the arrival of a bomb disposal team.

One of the staff told the A&T: “We have had to evacuate the site because an old man brought in some rubbish which we believe contains an unexploded bomb.

"No one is allowed in.”

The site was later opened again at about 4.10pm after the device had been made safe.

The incident has prompted HCC to urge people to contact police if they believe they might be in possession of explosives or live ammunition.

A spokesperson said: “We can confirm that Efford (Lymington) Household Waste Recycling Centre was evacuated and closed at 10.30am this morning following the discovery of a potentially live military shell.

"We would like to remind members of the public that if they do have items that they suspect may be live ammunition that they should contact their local police station to seek advice on how to dispose of them safely.”