Tech
Jun 17, 20261
69%
Bomb squad evacuates Barnstaple street during England's World Cup opener
Homes on Pilton Street in Barnstaple were evacuated after unexploded ordnance was discovered at a property during England's World Cup opener. The Royal Navy's bomb disposal team removed the item safely, and residents were later allowed to return home.
Quick Facts
Who
Devon and Cornwall Police
What
unexploded ordnance was discovered at a property in Pilton
When
Tuesday evening
Where
Pilton Street
- unexploded ordnance was discovered at a property in Pilton
- nearby homes were evacuated
- the Royal Navy's bomb squad removed the device safely
- residents were later allowed to return home
- part of Pilton Street was closed to traffic
Residents were evacuated from part of Pilton Street in Barnstaple on Tuesday evening after unexploded ordnance was found at a property, prompting a large police response and the deployment of the Royal Navy's Explosive Ordnance Disposal team. The incident unfolded during England's World Cup opener, with witnesses reporting several police vehicles in the area and part of the road closed to traffic near a fish and chip shop.
Devon and Cornwall Police's Barnstaple neighbourhood team later said the item had been safely removed by the Royal Navy bomb squad. Residents who had been asked to leave their homes were told they could return shortly before 9.30pm.
Local accounts described officers warning people about a potential bomb in one of the nearby houses, while town councillor Janet Coates praised police for their prompt response and clear communication. It was not immediately clear how many homes were affected, although at least some businesses on the street were able to remain open.
Pilton Street, in the Pilton area of Barnstaple, is a mainly residential road with a small number of shops and takeaways. Police said the situation had been resolved safely, and no further risk to the public was reported.
Why This Matters
This incident highlights the ongoing risks posed by unexploded ordnance in civilian areas and demonstrates the importance of rapid emergency response protocols. For residents and local communities, it underscores how historical wartime remnants can disrupt daily life and the critical role of specialized military units in public safety. The successful resolution without casualties or damage illustrates effective coordination between police and bomb disposal teams.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 17, 2026
WirePolice and residents reported a large presence on Pilton Street after unexploded ordnance was discovered at a property.
Jun 17, 2026
WireWitnesses saw several police vehicles and part of Pilton Street was closed while the area was secured.
Jun 17, 2026
WireBarnstaple Police confirmed the ordnance had been safely removed by the Royal Navy EOD team and residents could return.