Boy has 'lucky escape' after picking up live hand grenade on Cornwall beach

Live hand grenade
The boy picked up the live hand grenade on Sennen Cove Beach. Credit: Falmouth Coastguard

A boy had a "lucky escape" after picking up a live hand grenade on a beach in Cornwall.

RNLI lifeguards at Sennen Cove Beach were alerted to the incident on August 6.

Assisted by the Lands End Coastguard Search and Rescue Team, a cordon was put in place to keep everyone on the beach safe.

The Royal Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit from Plymouth then arrived and carried out a controlled explosion.

The Coastguard said: "Rough seas can often cause items to wash up or be uncovered around the coast.

"Please remember that ordnance comes in many different shapes and sizes. If you find something suspicious on the beach, please do not touch it, move it or take it home.

What should I do if I find a possible ordnance?

  • Make a note of the exact location of the item

  • Take notes on its size, shape and description

  • Call 999 and report it to the Coastguard