First World War bomb blown up at RAF base

A First World War bomb has been blown up in a controlled explosion at RAF Cranwell after it was found by workmen yesterday.

The 16-pound device was discovered near the runway during routine works at the Lincolnshire base.

A bomb disposal team from RAF Wittering carried out the controlled explosion to make the device safe.

A man who works at the base told the Journal that everybody was evacuated at about 9.30am and that the nearby A17 has been closed to traffic.

Deputy Commandant of RAF College Cranwell, Group Captain Gordon Bettington, said: “On discovery of the First World War ordnance by contractors working on our airfield this morning, we activated our contingency plans to deal with the incident.”

He said: “I am immensely proud of the response from all our personnel and 5131 (BD) Squadron, which enabled things to swiftly return to normal after the ordnance was made safe. We are now fascinated to learn more about the munition itself and the history of operations from the airfield.”

As a precaution, personnel working in the vicinity were evacuated and a safety cordon put in place. Technicians identified the device as a First World War 16lb high explosive bomb.

Warrant Officer Phil Hunt, the Senior Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer at 5131 (BD) Squadron, said: “This was a First World War bomb and it took a few minutes to identify as it was a most unusual find. Nonetheless, it was a pleasure to be called to the spiritual home of the Royal Air Force in its 100th year and to restore the station to normal as quickly as we could.”