A BOMB that was discovered at a Hampshire airport has been destroyed in a controlled explosion, the Royal Navy has confirmed.

The six-metre World War Two Canadian pipe bomb was removed last night as part of an overnight investigation by the Navy's specialist bomb squad at Solent Airport.

It was then taken to a "controlled environment" and destroyed.


As reported, a 100m exclusion zone was set up in the area where the item was discovered and residents have been told to stay indoors and not open their windows.

Fareham Borough Council said the airport near Lee-on-the-Solent will remain closed until further notice, but that this will not effect search and recue teams which operate from the base. 

The item, which is believed to be a pipe bomb from World War Two was discovered by a contractor during construction works on a new substation at Swordfish Business Park.

A statement from Hampshire Constabulary said: "We were called to the HMS Daedalus site at 12.38pm following the discovery of what is believed to be a piece of historic ordnance. 

"Officers are currently at the scene and are in contact with an EOD team.

"No evactuation of the site has been necessary at this point."

Roads closed included Stubbington Lane between Ross House and Golden Bowler, along with Sea Lane and Crofton Lane.

Councillor Sean Woodward, leader of Fareham Borough Council said: "The item looks like it could be a pipe bomb or it could be something completely innocent. 

"Solent Airport has been closed as a precaution and police are currently on the scene.

"There were a lot of pipe bombs laid at the airfield during World War Two which were discovered when we were relying the airfield so we are not taking any chances."

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service also said that they were aware of the incident.