Couple’s Routine Dog Walk Uncovers Secrets of a Lost WW2 Fighter Plane Wreckage
The Royal Navy discovered live ammunition in the bowels of the wreck, and swift action had to be taken. According to The Grimsby Telegraph, a bomb disposal team conducted a controlled explosion to neutralize the ammo on board the plane, still live after 76 years.
Imperial War MuseumAn RAF Bristol Beaufighter TF.X of 254 Squadron, just like the one discovered at Cleethorpes Beach.
The plane is believed to be a Bristol Beaufighter, which served as a maritime attack aircraft by British forces during the war. Known as the “whispering death” to its enemies, the 300 MPH speeds and relatively quiet engines meant certain doom for Axis units encountering these planes.
This particular craft belonged to the 254 Squadron, and was stationed at RAF North Coates a few miles south of Cleethorpes before its final flight — during which both engines failed after take-off.
Holden said he’s been walking the same stretch of beach for nearly 20 years, entirely unaware that a WWII relic lay right beneath his feet. Before the bomb disposal team ensured that no live explosives remained in the wreckage, he was rightfully wary not to disclose where exactly he found the plane.
FacebookThe wreckage contained live ammunition which a bomb disposal team had to neutralize with a controlled demolition.
“I never expected to find anything like this in my life,” said Holden. “It’s an amazing find. I went out there just last week and it wasn’t there. It could be covered up by the sand again soon. Who knows when it will next be uncovered — perhaps in another 80 years or so?”
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