A BOMB squad was rushed to a quiet village’s field after metal detectorists made an alarming discovery during a charity event.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed its army explosive ordnance disposal team attended the scene in Queen’s Head Road, Boxted, on Monday.

A “massive boom” was heard by residents as the soldiers destroyed a First World War vintage German grenade which had been discovered by a metal detectorist.

It came during a rally to raise money for the St Helena Hospice where more than 60 detectorists scanned three fields during the day.

It is understood many small finds were made throughout the activity, including coins dating back to the reign of King Charles I and an axe head.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Defence said the grenade found was rare and there was no danger to residents during the army’s controlled explosion.

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He said: “We can confirm that an army explosive ordnance disposal team was called out on Monday to an incident in Queen’s Head Road, Boxted.

“Upon inspection the item was found to be a Model 17 Eierhandgranate, a First World War-vintage German grenade, which was destroyed in situ.

“At no time was there any danger to residents and we thank the public for their patience.

“We always advise the public that if they inadvertently disturb what they believe to be live ordnance, they should contact their local police force as a matter of urgency.”

Rachel Joy, fundraiser at St Helena Hospice, hailed an exciting and dramatic find, thanking the parties involved.

She said: “We are so grateful to the club for supporting us through their metal detecting rallies and to the landowner for allowing access to the field.

“The East Coast Searchers have raised more than £6,000 since they started their digs in September 2020 to raise money for St Helena Hospice.

“These vital funds are very much appreciated so we can continue to support local people facing incurable illness and bereavement; in their own homes, over the phone and at the hospice.

Boxted Heath was the scene of a battle of sorts during the Siege of Colchester in the summer of 1648, before King Charles I was beheaded on January 30, 1649.

It is understood the coins discovered could be associated with the battle between Royalists and Cavaliers.