"Potentially explosive ordnance" found as properties evacuated and Royal Navy bomb disposal team deployed

Royal Navy bomb disposal personnel have been deployed to Woodpecker Copse this evening (September 30) after an item was discovered earlier today. Dozens of nearby properties have been evacuated as a precautionary measure.

A cordon has been set up around the address, with the public warned to stay away. Fareham Police issued a statement at 5.32pm on Facebook.

The force said: “Officers are currently dealing with an incident in Locks Heath after potentially explosive ordnance was discovered at an address in Woodpecker Copse. A 100 metre cordon has been set up around the property and 70 properties have been evacuated as a precaution.

“The Royal Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal team are en-route to access the situation. Please avoid the area while we deal with this incident.”