A BOMB scare on a North Yorkshire beach has been safely resolved after explosive experts recovered the top of a mine.

Sandsend Beach, near Whitby, was cordoned off by Whitby Coastguard and Skinningrove Coastguard following the discovery of a suspected unexploded ordnance yesterday afternoon.

The explosive ordnance disposal team was called out and shortly after 5pm recovered the top of a mine. Thankfully, the rest of the device had corroded away and no detonation was need.

North Yorkshire Police also attended the scene and parking was suspended in the area throughout the incident.

The beach was closed from the steps at Sandsend to the entrance of Raithwaite Hall but has since reopened.

A spokesperson for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: “Hats off to Whitby Coastguard and Skinningrove Coastguard who've been looking after the cordon all day keeping the public safe.

“Remember ordnance comes in many different shapes and sizes. If you see something suspicious don't touch it, pick it up or take it home. Leave it where it is, take photos or make notes about its size, what it looks like and where it is so the experts can decide if it's safe or not. Then call 999 and report it to the Coastguard.”