More than 1,000 homes have been evacuated in Plymouth after an unexploded World War Two bomb was discovered at a construction site in the Southway area.
The ordnance was uncovered on Wednesday evening, prompting an immediate response from police and emergency services, who cordoned off surrounding roads while specialist teams were deployed to the scene.
Royal Navy bomb disposal experts were called in to assess the device, which has been identified as a German SC250, a 250kg air-dropped bomb from the Second World War.
Authorities said around 1,260 households have been affected by the evacuation, with some residents expected to be displaced for up to two nights while safety operations continue.
A community centre in Southway has been converted into an evacuation hub, providing temporary shelter for displaced residents, with some also bringing pets to the facility.
Sand was transported to the site in large quantities to help stabilise the device while experts continue their controlled assessment and disposal planning.
Devon and Cornwall Police said officers are working closely with military specialists and partner agencies to manage the situation safely and efficiently, adding that they do not underestimate the disruption caused to residents.
At least three schools in the affected zone have also been closed as a precaution, while local authorities continue to maintain a safety cordon around the area.
Officials noted that Plymouth has previously experienced similar incidents due to its wartime history, with the city heavily targeted during more than 50 Luftwaffe air raids between 1941 and 1944.
