A CONTROLLED explosion was carried out after a grenade was found yesterday (Thursday).

A bomb disposal team was called after a fisherman discovered a hand grenade in a canal near to Bradley Lane, Newton-le-Willows.

St Helens Star:

Pic: Leon Corrigan

Police were called at 1.35pm on Thursday, April 8, following the reports.

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The Explosive Ordnance Disposal team (EOD) was contacted to dispose of the device safely, police said.

A Merseyside Police spokeswoman said: "The EOD carried out a controlled explosion at 6.40pm last night and the scene was stood down."

Roads in the surrounding area had been closed and the public while the matter was being dealt with.