**Bomb Disposal Team Responds to Unexploded Device at Iconic Welsh Beach**
Authorities were called into action at one of Wales’ most recognisable coastal spots this past weekend after the discovery of an unexploded ordnance sparked safety concerns. Freshwater West, a sweeping bay in Pembrokeshire famed both for its golden sands and for featuring in the *Harry Potter* film series, became the focus of an emergency response on Saturday, 19th July, after a suspected explosive device was found by a member of the public.
Dyfed-Powys Police quickly responded to the discovery, issuing a temporary closure of the B4319; a key access road running alongside the popular beach, as a precautionary measure. The area surrounding the device was cordoned off, and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was summoned to neutralise the device and ensure public safety.
A police spokesperson outlined the swift response, stating: “Police were called to Freshwater West beach shortly before 4:55pm on Saturday, 19 July, following the discovery of a suspected unexploded ordnance shell. The area surrounding the suspected shell was secured and the B4319 at Freshwater West was closed until the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team made the shell safe.” This approach is in line with standard procedures for managing such incidents, ensuring both the safety of the public and the attending emergency services.
Freshwater West occupies a revered place in Wales’ cinematic and cultural landscape, having served as the backdrop for the poignant Shell Cottage scenes in *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*. The setting, easily recognisable to film fans, was home to several key moments, including the emotional burial of the character Dobby. The cottage itself, a temporary construct for the film production, was removed after filming concluded, leaving the beach itself as a must-see for fans and tourists alike.
The dramatic intervention at Freshwater West serves as a reminder that, despite its tranquil appearance, the coastline may still bear remnants from past eras, particularly in a region where historic military activity was not uncommon. Unexploded ordnance—ranging from shells to other military devices—continue to be found from time to time along the British coastline, often relics from wartime training exercises or conflict.
Visitors to the beach on Saturday faced short-term disruption, with both vehicular and pedestrian access restricted while the incident was managed. Authorities praised the public for their understanding and cooperation during the temporary closure, which was lifted once the device had been dealt with by the explosives experts.
Statistically, discoveries of this nature are rare, but not unprecedented in Britain’s coastal regions, highlighting the ongoing vigilance required by both residents and visitors. Local officials underscored the importance of reporting suspicious objects found on beaches or in rural areas, recommending that individuals refrain from touching or disturbing unusual items and contact the authorities immediately.
Though the incident may have caused initial alarm, it underscores the efficacy of multi-agency coordination in safeguarding sensitive locations such as Freshwater West. The prompt action of the police and the explosives disposal unit ensured both the safety of the public and the continued accessibility of this beloved Pembrokeshire landmark.
For now, with the ordnance safely removed, Freshwater West has returned to normalcy—its only explosions those of crashing surf and the laughter of beachgoers. Yet the weekend’s events remain a timely reminder of the unlikely hazards that sometimes lie beneath the surface at even the most familiar destinations.