Bomb range warning after moped incident

Chinook helicopter crews use the RAF Holbeach bombing range for target practice

People enjoying the Lincolnshire coast are being warned not to wander on to a live aircraft bombing range.

Lincolnshire Police said it followed reports a man had entered a prohibited area of RAF Holbeach on a moped.

A 57-year-old man had been summonsed to Boston Magistrates' Court charged with contravening a byelaw at the range.

Officers warned often only a few minutes' notice was given before bombing took place.

Red flags are raised when the bombing range is about to be used

The site, near Boston, has been used for bombing practice since 1926. Since 1993, this has included night bombing and helicopter operations.

Red flags are raised before the range is used, the authorities said.

A Lincolnshire Police spokesperson said: “A byelaw has been in place since 1939 to protect the site and access is prohibited during hours of operation.

“It is not uncommon for the site to receive only a few minutes’ notice prior to live ammunition being used.

"This is signified by the raising of red flags along the boundary site."

'Obey red flags'

Maj (Retd) Tim Stearne, from East Coast MoD Air Weapons Ranges, said: “Our message is simple, only access military land when and where it is safe to do so, and with caution at all times, and please read and obey all red flags and signage.”

Earlier this week, the RAF said spectators were risking serious injury by standing too close to jets as they take off and land at its Coningsby and Waddington bases, also in Lincolnshire.

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