A World War Two shell, donated to a heritage archive 30 years ago, was recently checked by a bomb squad after being discovered during an audit. Volunteers at Kirkgate Arts and Heritage in Cockermouth, Cumbria, found the brass artillery shell while preparing to move their collection to new storage.
Community projects officer Helen Johnston stated the team was aware of the donation but the shell had not been formally checked. Cumbria Police were contacted, who then called the explosive ordnance disposal regiment from Catterick. The regiment confirmed the shell was not live and its internal mechanisms had been removed.
Emma Heys, the group's chief executive, said officers ensured the safety of everyone in the building and surrounding properties during the investigation. The group plans to include the shell in an exhibition of objects, photographs, and memorabilia, which is set to open on 12 September.