Residents surprised after dramatic 'bomb scare' closes off Idle church

Holy Trinity Church, on Town Lane, Idle, was cordoned off earlier today after police were called at 11.07am after reports a suspected old mortar shell was discovered.

A church member and local residents have spoken about their surprise after the dramatic incident at the church.

John Walmsley, a member of Holy Trinity Church, said: "The chap who found it was digging and preparing for the next burial of ashes.

The site where a suspected mortar shell was found at Holy Trinity Church in Idle (Image: Newsquest)

"He wondered what the heck it was. It looked like a military type of thing.

"The church was full of children."

He then said the police were called and he commended them for their quick response.

"There were a number of police cars. They cordoned the area off and closed the road.

"The police acted quickly," said Mr Walmsley. "They got the children and the mums out. There was a bit of drama.

"I understand it was a mortar shell," he added. "It was found next to the path. I wonder if it's been there all these years."

Idle resident Mark Exley, who lives next to the Holy Trinity Church, said: "All of this area was cordoned off and they closed Town Lane," he said. "There was no access for vehicles.

"There were about six police officers down below in the churchyard.

"They were searching about but didn't appear to be digging or using any metal detectors.

"I literally walk around here every day and I'm surprised there would be a bomb here."

A local resident went for a walk with her dog in the churchyard after the police had left the scene.

"When I came here it was clear but I heard some kids talking about it," she said. "I wasn't sure if they were kidding.

"It's a little bit concerning. You kind of wonder how long it's been buried there.

"It's better out of the ground than in it."

Police were scrambled to the scene and an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) was on site.

A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said earlier: "Emergency services are in attendance at a church on Town Lane, Bradford, after workers found what’s reported to look like an old mortar shell.

"An EOD has been called to examine the device.

"A cordon has been put in place for public safety whilst the incident is ongoing."

In an update at 2.50pm, a police spokesperson said: "This incident has been resolved and the cordon has been lifted.

"Thank you to the public for their patience this afternoon."

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