THE BOMB squad has been sent to deal with a 12-inch long unexploded shell.

The device was found by a passerby yesterday between Belle Tout Lighthouse and Belle Tout layby near Beachy Head, Eastbourne.

The Explosive Ordnance Disposal are on site and planning a controlled explosion later today.

Eastbourne and Birling Gap Coastguard rescue teams have set up a cordon around the shell, restricting public access as a precautionary measure.

An HM Coastguard spokeswoman said: “HM Coastguard and the Military Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team are currently at the scene at Beachy Head dealing with a possible unexploded shell that was discovered yesterday.

“Just before 8:50pm yesterday HM Coastguard received a call from a member of the public reporting the suspected shell halfway between Belle Tout Lighthouse and Belle Tout layby.

“The photographs were immediately sent to the EOD team. The shell is approximately three inches wide and 12 inches long.

“The EOD team arrived on scene this morning and are planning a controlled explosion at low tide later this evening.

“HM Coastguard is advising people to keep at a safe distance until it has been declared safe by the EOD team.”