WASTE managers say an explosive found at Bidston Recycling Centre yesterday could have had "catastrophic consequences."

Merseyside Waste Disposal Authority was informed at 11.40am that an incendiary device had been found in its Materials Recovery Facility at Wallasey Bridge Road, Bidston.

The device had been taken to the centre as part of a recyclables delivery. It was an extremely powerful mortar-fired illumination used on the battlefield to turn night into day.

Workers were evacuated by police officers and bomb disposal experts were called to the scene to investigate.

For safety, the device was disposed of in a controlled explosion on a vacant site next to the facility.

Alex Murray, assistant director of operations for Merseyside Waste Disposal Authority, said: “This was an extremely serious incident and could have had catastrophic consequences.

"This device was live and could have caused serious injury. "We would urge people to think very carefully about what they place in their bins. Luckily vigilant staff at the site ensured that any harm was averted.”

During the closure the public and all waste operation were directed to other nearby sites. The Bidston site reopened at around 3.45pm.

Alex Paterson, director of Veolia Environmental Services Merseyside and Halton said: “Health and safety is our top priority and the prompt action of our staff mitigated a more serious incident.

"An investigation is under way by us to establish where the device originated.”