Metal spikes removed from Devon beach Published duration 28 July 2013

image caption The spikes are thought to be anti-tank devices dating back to World War II

Coiled metal spikes which are believed to date back to World War II have been removed from a Devon beach.

The spikes are thought to be anti-tank devices, according to Shawn Corin the senior ranger on Northam Burrows.

The coiled spikes were erected at the location to stop invading tanks from advancing off the beach and inland, Mr Corin said.

Some of the recovered coiled spikes, which vary in size, will be given to the North Devon Museum in Barnstaple.

Mr Corin said: "The spikes were first exposed back in 2007 but before we had a chance to remove any, the Pebble Ridge had swallowed them up again. This time we've managed to remove the majority of them - about two tonnes worth.

"The coils would have ripped off the tracks from any tanks, rendering them immobile."

Northam Burrows Country Park is a 253 hectare grassy coastal plain at the mouth of the Taw and Torridge estuary, which includes the Pebble Ridge, a bank of cobbles which is part of Westward Ho! beach.

Gaye Tabor, Torridge District Council's lead member for the natural and built environment, said: "It's fascinating the secrets Northam Burrows is still withholding from us.

"It's such a wonderful natural resource for Torridge, enjoyed by people of all ages, and never fails to amaze."