Thousands Return Home After WWII Bomb Detonated in Plymouth

After evacuating due to a WWII bomb discovery, thousands have returned to Plymouth.

The 500kg device, found in a garden in Keyham, prompted evacuations as military experts managed its removal and detonation on Friday at 21:51 GMT.

Despite the strain, resident Jenny Dunn praised the community's unity and support. The Ministry of Defence described the effort as one of the UK's most extensive peacetime evacuations.

Elle Clarke, relieved at the operation's end, was especially worried for her pets left at home. Joe Pearse, near where the bomb was found, prepared for the worst but was grateful for his intact home.

Bomb disposal teams identified the device as a German SC-500 bomb, which was taken out to sea and detonated at a minimum depth of 14m. The operation affected over 10,000 people and caused significant disruption.

The police and council officials are now ensuring community safety as normalcy returns. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps commended the personnel involved and the public for their patience during the operation.