THE discovery of a 250lb WWII bomb close to Falmouth Docks was one of the most interesting things to happen in the town since I arrived at Falmouth University in 2024, writes Phoebe Mitchell.

On Wednesday (September 23), hearing the bomb was being removed that day, I offered my housemates a drive down to Castle Beach to see if we could catch a glimpse of what everyone was talking about.

Despite the seriousness of the situation, the atmosphere was far from negative. Along the road leading to Pendennis Point, the street was lined with people from all walks of life – students, pensioners, families, reporters and photographers leaning against the railing separating the street from the sea.

Some had cameras - hoping to capture an explosion, perhaps. Others were equipped with binoculars (something I was rather jealous of), and there seemed to be a sense of camaraderie within the group.

There was an audible chatter, with people conversing between themselves about how the bomb had affected them. Some spoke about being evacuated, while others mentioned how momentous this occasion was.

In contrast, my housemates and I were almost speechless. The idea something that had been dormant for so long was suddenly a threat, and a reminder of the history of our nation, made me realise how small we are.

As a ship sailed towards the horizon carrying what we assumed to be the bomb, a thick plume of smoke rising from its deck, the energy on the street changed: the sense of apprehension left, and certainty returned. Shortly afterwards, it was revealed the bomb had been moved to an exclusion zone, with future plans to be confirmed.

Although the day carried weight and a certain anxiety, I believe it brought out the best in people. Happenings like these, rare as they are, tend to remind us that community is more important than we think.