WW2 bomb found on building site to be detonated

A cordon has been in place at the site since the device was found on Tuesday

Specialists were preparing to carry out a controlled explosion of a World War Two bomb discovered on a construction site.

The device was found near Station Road in East Tilbury, Essex at 11:30 GMT on Tuesday.

The detonation was expected to take place before 14:00 GMT on Friday, Essex Police said.

It asked members of the public to avoid the area and warned rail passengers of possible disruption to services.

The site has been cordoned off since the discovery to allow Ministry of Defence experts to assess the area.

Thurrock district commander Ch Insp Anthony Atkin said: "This discovery was made on a fairly remote construction site and, as such, the impact on the wider community has, so far, been minimal.

"Those in the vicinity may hear a short-lived bang. Rest assured this is anticipated and planned."

Police said the nearby railway line between Grays and Pitsea would be temporarily closed as a precaution.

It also warned passengers to expect disruption and cancellations between London and Southend, via Ockendon, until around 15:00 GMT.