Beach sealed off after bomb found

The device is thought to be American and weigh about 250lb

A Royal Navy bomb disposal unit has been called to an unexploded bomb discovered on a Suffolk beach.

Homes, schools and businesses within half a mile of the site at Felixstowe harbour have been evacuated and may not return before Tuesday afternoon.

The bomb was unearthed early in the morning by a contractor working on the area's sea defences.

Experts in the unit think the bomb was dropped by a US aircraft in World War II, while returning to an airbase.

It is understood that the unit will dispose of the bomb on Tuesday afternoon, after taking it further out to sea.

Residents from the area are currently being advised to stay with local friends or family.

A police spokeswoman said officers are inspecting homes in the cordoned area in case vulnerable residents or others have not received information about the bomb.

Those with no alternative accommodation are advised that local councils are setting up temporary accommodation centres in the town, the first being at Brackenbury Sports Centre.