A BEACH in Southend has been closed after live bombs were discovered.

Southend Council has closed East Beach in Shoebury to the public after artillery and mortar shells were found washed up last night and this morning.

Scott Dolling, acting head of service for economy, regeneration and tourism said: “Due to the increasing amount of unexploded ordnance items being found within and near to East Beach, and with public safety our first priority, we feel we must take the decision to temporarily close the beach.

“The MOD has started surveying works which once completed will allow us to properly assess the risk and make an informed decision as to what we do next. We are working with them to get this work done as quickly as possible.

“As part of this, we also need to consider the implications of the increasing number of unexploded ordnance being washed ashore.”

It is thought that the recent bad weather experienced across the country, including high tides and waves, has led to more ordnance being washed up around the country, including East Beach.

New signs are to be put in place from today, along with fencing by the weekend.

Additional Resort Services staff will be put on duty in the East Beach area during daylight hours.