A SECOND World War bomb has been destroyed in a controlled explosion in the River Foss near Strensall.

The bomb was spotted on Friday at about 7.45pm by a member of the public who was walking along Towthorpe Road between Strensall and Haxby.

Police were called to the scene who then brought in army bomb disposal experts to deal with the device. Inspector Vicky Taylor, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “A member of the public reported what they believed to be a mortar bomb in the river.

"Due to the river levels being relatively low at the moment the fins were sticking out."

The device, which was described as an “unexploded aircraft-deployed bomb” was destroyed in a controlled explosion by experts from Catterick Garrison at about 9.30pm.

“No properties were evacuated due to the location being rural,” said Insp Taylor.

However Towthorpe Road was closed and ambulances were put on standby throughout the disposal operation.