BOMB Squad officers closed a popular beach and carried out a controlled explosion after reports of an explosive.

Selsey Coastguard was called to reports of a possible bomb on West Wittering beach near Chichester at 7pm on Saturday.

Officers cordoned off the area and closed the beach.

Royal Navy bomb disposal officers then carried out a controlled explosion.

A Coastguard spokesman warned beachgoers to call 999 straight away if they come across any suspected bombs.

“Ordnance comes in all shapes and sizes and can be found to still be highly explosive, so please do not touch it and call the Coastguard,“ he said.

“The coast and the sea can catch you out whether you’re local or not. Be aware of the risks, keep your distance.“