A controlled explosion was carried out by Royal Navy bomb disposal experts from Faslane on Wednesday.

Emergency services were called out shortly after 7am on March 31 following reports of possible ordnance washed up on the beach near the entrance to Irvine Harbour.

The Ardrossan coastguard rescue team responded immediately and the object in question was quickly located with a safety cordon setup.

Images of the item were obtained and digitally transmitted to the Coastguard Operations Centre in Belfast for onward submission to the Royal Navy’s Explosive Ordnance Dispoal (EOD) team, based at Faslane.

The Royal Navy EOD unit were deployed and following their on scene assessment, they conducted a controlled explosion to destroy the object, with the coastguard team supporting with an expanded safety cordon.

A spokesperson for the coastguart rescue team said: “We would urge everyone to follow these simple pieces of advice if they find something on the beach which they believe could be a maritime distress flare or possible ordnance:

· Do not touch or move the item

· Keep a safe distance at all times

· Dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard immediately

· Provide as much information as possible including exact location.

“It is not uncommon for suspect items to be washed up along the coast especially following spells of bad weather.

"If you are venturing for a walk along the coast for exercise in line with the current Covid restrictions then please take care, stay safe and if in doubt – get us out.”