Burnham-On-Sea Coastguards were called out on Sunday (February 18th) to investigate a ‘large object’ washed up on the beach near the town’s low lighthouse amid concern that it could be an explosive.
The crew was tasked to check it just after 1pm after a beach walker raised the alarm amid concern that the large cylindrical object could be ordnance.
“The team made their way along Burnham Beach to just past the Lower Lighthouse where the lady who had called it in was waiting,” said a spokesman.
“She had correctly made her way to a safe distance away from the object to avoid placing herself in danger and dialled 999 and asked for the Coastguard.”
“After a brief chat two of our team investigated the device to see if there were any markings on it.”
“As they approached they could immediately see that it was the same fender that had washed up a few weeks back.”
“It was still awaiting removal by the local authority after being reported a few weeks back,” as Burnham-On-Sea.com reported here at the start of February.
“Seeing as the object was harmless we were happy that there was no further action for us to take and our operations room would contact the local authority to ensure it is removed.”
“The first informant was very apologetic and felt that she had wasted out time, but we are very grateful that there are people like her out there willing to call in something if they are worried.”
“This type of object can look just like some of the wartime ordnance and if you don’t know what it is it can be a worry.”
“Don’t ever feel embarrassed to call it in, we are here to help keep our coastline safe, and help people when needed.”
Pictured: The object that Coastguards investigated (photo Burnham Coastguard)
