Bomb squad carries out controlled explosion on WWII device found in Derby river

A 100m cordon was put in place and police closed Derwent Street and Exeter Bridge

The bomb squad has carried out a controlled explosion on a suspected World War II device today (Sunday). The object was discovered in a Derby river this afternoon.

Police first reported the find shortly after 3pm. They put a 100m cordon in place and closed Derwent Street and Exeter Bridge.

Derbyshire Police said: "A cordon is currently in place in Derby city centre. An unknown device has been found in the River Derwent and a 100m cordon has been put in place as a precaution.

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"The Explosive Ordnance Disposal team has been called to assess the device. Derwent Street and Exeter Bridge is currently closed. Please avoid the area and find an alternative route."

A controlled explosion was later carried out on the device to make it safe around 5pm.

Police said: "A controlled explosion has taken place in Derby after a suspected WW2 device was found in the River Derwent. The cordon in the city centre has now been lifted and all roads are now reopened."