Guernsey Press

WWII mine found near Castle Cornet detonated in controlled explosion

A World War 2 British Ground Parachute mine was found close to Castle Cornet and was destroyed this afternoon.

Published
Pic by Tony Rive 31-03-18 Seawater and Sand billow up into the air as a Royal Navy Bomb Disposal Team in conjuntion with Guernsey's Own Team detonate 2 WWII Mines which had been found recently. The Dive Teams recovered to Mines this morning with the help of Guernsey Harbour's Workboat Sarnia and the Harbour's Dive Team and towed the Explosives to a position on the Northside of the Great Bank approximately 1 mile southeast of St Peter Port Harbour. Once lowerd to the Seabed, Explosives were attached and detonated at 1353. (21080633)

Guernsey Police's bomb disposal team worked with the Royal Navy Bomb Disposal to remove the mine, which police said dates back to the summer of 1944.

It was found partially corroded and did not contain the entire 870 Lbs of high-explosive. It was recovered and destroyed shortly after its discovery with a controlled explosion.

'Another operation will be conducted tomorrow with the Navy to explore a second item also located by Castle Cornet about 100 metres from today's find,' Guernsey Police said.

'Mariners should listen to Channel 16 for safety warning should it be needed. Broadcasts will be given prior to any action.'