Wirral tip evacuated after suspected mortar bomb found
Bomb squad called and public told to avoid the area
A recycling centre on the Wirral has been evacuated and temporarily closed after a suspected mortar bomb was discovered on site.
Emergency services were called to Bidston House Recycling Centre on Wallasey Bridge Road this morning after reports that a “mortar bomb” had been found.
It's understood the object was spotted after it rolled down a production line at the tip.
Police confirm bomb squad called
Merseyside Police have confirmed they are dealing with the incident and that the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit has been contacted.
A spokesperson for the force said:
“We can confirm officers are in Bidston following the discovery of a suspicious object today, Monday 5 January.
“At around 9.05am we received a report that a mortar had been found at the Bidston House Recycling Centre on Wallasey Bridge Road.
“Officers are still at the site which has been evacuated and a cordon is in place.
“The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit are have been contacted to confirm what the object is. Members of the public are advised to avoid the area.
“Thank you for your patience while we deal with this incident.”
What is a mortar bomb?
A mortar bomb, often referred to as a mortar round, is an explosive shell fired from a mortar, a type of indirect-fire artillery weapon.
Unexploded devices are discovered relatively frequently in the UK, with many dating back to World War Two and remaining undetected for decades.