Can you imagine unintentionally posing for family photos next to an unexploded World War II mine? That’s exactly what happened to the Gravell family on their recent beach outing in Burry Port, Carmarthenshire. In a stroke of luck, authorities spotted the small detail, and disaster was narrowly avoided.
Kelly Gravell and her two daughters stumbled upon the object, covered in seaweed, during their beach adventure. Little did they know that they were standing right next to a 70-year-old bomb. Just five days later, the beach was abruptly closed as Carmarthenshire Council rangers recognized the potential danger and summoned the bomb squad.
After a controlled detonation by the bomb squad, a big explosion rocked the far side of the port, as seen in dramatic footage. Gareth, the father, couldn’t help but share his amazement on Twitter. He posted photos of his daughters, Erin and Ellis, happily playing near the concealed bomb. He humorously remarked, “So the buoy my kids were jumping on all weekend turns out to be a WWII bomb. Oops.”
It’s amazing how the family had been more interested in the barnacles on the object than its true nature during their beach outing. They dismissed the historic bomb as just a harmless buoy. They even made a lighthearted comment about it being a “big bomb.” Little did they know the danger they were in.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Gravell said, “We were so close to disaster – it’s shocking.” As owners of a waste management company, the couple understands the importance of caution. They will go back to their favorite beach, but this time with extra vigilance. Ms. Gravell added, “We’ll surely think twice before playing with something like that again, and we went down to see it blow up.”
Councillor Meryl Gravell, executive board member for leisure at Carmarthenshire Council, assured the public that necessary measures were taken to handle the situation. She apologized for the beach closure and ensured that public safety was the top priority.
This incident serves as a reminder for everyone to always be cautious and aware of our surroundings, even in seemingly safe places. It’s important to appreciate the beauty of our coastlines while also respecting their history and potential hidden dangers.
