Police close major road after ‘hand grenade’ found at a petrol station
The explosive was destroyed in a nearby field.
A major road was closed for hours after an explosive was taken to a petrol station.
Bomb disposal experts were called to the Ron Perry service station on the A19 near Hartlepool, between the A689 Wolverston and the A179.
The nature of the device hasn’t yet been confirmed but there are reports that it is a hand grenade.
Police announced the closure at around 4pm on Wednesday, and confirmed that the road had reopened shortly before 7pm.
The local fire brigade was also in attendance.
A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: ‘The A19, which was closed around the Hartlepool area while EOD colleagues dealt with an explosive device, has re-opened.
‘The device was disposed of in a controlled explosion on nearby farmland.
‘Thanks to all motorists and other emergency services/partners for your support.’
There were major delays on surrounding roads as the closure extended into rush hour, and diversion routes have been signposted.
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