Cordon in place after discovery of suspected phosphorus grenades in Hereford

Officers in Hereford have evacuated an area around Rotherwas Industrial Estate this evening (Wednesday, September 6) after a report of an explosion at a premises in the industrial estate at around 4.30pm, where excavation work was taking place. No injuries have been reported.

West Mercia Police, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operators are in attendance and although the incident is not being treated as suspicious, as a matter of precaution, a 200m cordon is currently in place and several residential homes and businesses around the location have been evacuated. The cordon includes closures of Fir Tree Lane at the junction of The Straight Mile, Skylon View Road at the junction of Beech Lane and a public footpath running from the north of the city to the Rotherwas Industrial Estate.

Public safety is the primary concern of police and partners and we appreciate the patience and assistance of members of the public whilst a safe search, extraction and removal of any further grenades is carried out. It is likely that the disruption will continue throughout this evening and tomorrow morning (Thursday, September 7) and people working on the Rotherwas Industrial Estate are advised to contact their employer or avoid the area if possible. Further information and updates will be provided when available.