
A Second World War bomb discovered under one of Germany's busiest autobahns has blown a 65ft hole in the road after it exploded.

Bomb disposal experts were forced to carry out a controlled explosion after being unable to defuse the 1,000lb British shell which was unearthed during construction work.

Repairs are now in progress on the eastbound carriageway of the Autobahn A3 near Offenbach, central Germany, with police saying they are unsure when the section of road will reopen. Drivers have been allowed back on to the westbound carriageway

The road had to be closed while the explosion was carried out, causing 12 miles of traffic jams in both directions this morning, according to The Local.

Frankfurt airport was also closed as the bomb was discovered directly underneath its main flight path, causing 22 planes to be delayed.

A 1,000lb Second World War bomb has blown a 65ft wide hole in a German autobahn after disposal experts carried out a controlled explosion

Specialists had tried to defuse the device using chemicals but when that didn't work they were forced to set off the device in a controlled detonation

The Autobahn 3 was closed in both directions near Offenbach this morning, causing traffic jams that stretched for 12 miles in both directions

Frankfurt airport was also closed until the detonation was complete as the explosive was discovered underneath one of its main flight paths

Police have now reopened the westbound carriageway towards Frankfurt, but say they don't know when the eastbound section will be open to motorists