BOMB disposal experts were called to a Hampshire beach after live Second World War shells were washed ashore by gale-force winds.

Hurst Spit was sealed off following the discovery of six shells - the biggest single haul of old ordnance found in the area for several years.

The incident has raised fears that other deadly objects are likely to be washed ashore in the next few months.

In October last year, two First World War shells were found near Hurst Castle and blown up by a bomb disposal team from Portsmouth.

The latest discovery, believed to be British shells, was made after Hurst Spit was battered by rough seas and gale-force winds.

A coastguard spokesman said the 60-year-old devices - two of which were live - were found after a member of the public raised the alarm.

He said: "A man was enjoying a peaceful walk along the Spit when he noticed a rusty object, which he suspected could be a shell.

"Lymington coastguards were alerted and the discovery was confirmed."

The spokesman said coastguards sealed off the area on Saturday with the help of Hampshire police and awaited the arrival of an Army bomb disposal squad from Tidworth, near Andover.

He added: "Coastguards spotted a further four shells, two of which were large naval armour piecing devices.

"A sixth shell was found by the Tidworth team, who confirmed that the live shells would need destroying and the Spit was closed while a controlled explosion took place."

It was the latest in a series of incidents in which gales have unearthed old ordnance in the area.

The spokesman added: "While discoveries of this nature must be treated with respect, the Spit remains a safe place for walking and other recreational pursuits.

"However, we will continue to keep a sharp lookout for dangerous objects."