A controlled explosion was carried out by the Royal Navy's bomb disposal unit after suspected ordnance was found on Irvine beach yesterday.

The Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team were first on the scene after being called out shortly after 7am following reports of possible ordnance washed up on the beach near the entrance to Irvine Harbour.

The team responded immediately and the object in question was quickly located with a safety cordon setup.

Images of the item were obtained and digitally transmitted to the Coastguard Operations Centre in Belfast for onward submission to the Royal Navy’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team based at Faslane.

The Royal Navy EOD unit were deployed and following their on scene assessment, they conducted a controlled explosion to destroy the object with the Coastguard team supporting with an expanded safety cordon.

A spokesperson for the Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team said: “We would urge everyone to follow these simple pieces of advice if they find something on the beach which they believe could be a maritime distress flare or possible ordnance:

· Do not touch or move the item

· Keep a safe distance at all times

· Dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard immediately

· Provide as much information as possible including exact location.

“It is not uncommon for suspect items to be washed up along the coast especially following spells of bad weather. If you are venturing for a walk along the coast for exercise in line with the current COVID restrictions then please take care, stay safe and if in doubt – get us out.”