Northern Ireland

Controlled explosion carried out on flare at north coast beach

Maritime flare was found on Friday morning

Portstewart Strand in Co Derry is usually a popular place for holidaymakers and visitors. Picture Margaret McLaughlin
Portstewart Strand in Co Derry. PICTURE: MARGARET MCLAUGHLIN

A controlled explosion has been carried out on a live maritime flare discovered on the beach at Portstewart.

The flare was reported to police as having been found in the Strand beach area of the Co Derry coastal town shortly before 9.30am on Friday.

The popular stretch of sand was closed as army technical officers were called to the scene, and it has since reopened.



A PSNI spokesperson said: “Our primary aim was to protect the public and I would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding.”