The sighting of possible ordnance on the beach at Shanklin prompted a multi-agency operation involving HM Coastguard, the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat this afternoon (Thursday).
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team were mobilised to the beach near Horse Ledge, Shanklin at 12:18 after Solent Coastguard received reports of ordnance being discovered.
Thankfully, it was quickly established that the suspected ordnance was in fact a gas canister, which was located between Horse Ledge and Yellow Ledge.
A fire appliance from Shanklin was mobilised to the scene by Hampshire Fire Control who liaised with Coastguard counterparts on the safe removal of the canister.
It wasn’t long before the assistance of Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat was requested, with the lifeboat crew helping to move the item to Shanklin Esplanade for disposal.
The incident lasted over 5 hours in total.
Anything unusual found on the beach or along the coast should always be reported to the Coastguard on 999.
