'Bomb' found on Torquay beach as Storm Ingrid batters Torbay and South Devon

Storm Ingrid was still battering Torbay and South Devon tonight leaving a trail of damage and destruction in her wake - and a suspected World War Two bomb on Torquay’s main Torre Abbey Sands.

Part of Teignmouth Pier was also torn away by the storm force winds and driving rain and a gaping hole was left in the sea wall at Torquay’s Meadfoot beach.

Teignmouth Pier ripped apart Picture David Burgess

The main Torquay seafront, which had already been closed for 24 hours previously as giant waves crashed over the sea wall and on to the main promenade, was sealed off again at around 3pm.

It is believed an unconfirmed ordnance device was discovered as the tide went out at Torre Abbey.

The main promenade was closed from Torre Abbey Meadows, up Shedden Hill and on to the Princess Theatre.

Torquay seafront cordoned off from Shedden Hill 

Police, coastguards and council and highways staff from SWISCo were at the scene as the huge area was cordoned off.

Teignmouth Pier was virtually ripped in two with this message on their Facebook page: After a dreadful night we have lost the end to storm Ingrid. We will assess the situation after the next high tide, please be kind, this is our livelihood. Please everyone stay safe.

Teignmouth battered by Storm Ingrid Picture Paul Venning Photography

Teignmouth and Dawlish took a particular hammering. Part of the sea wall was damaged at Dawlish with Dawlish Town Council appealing: “Due to damage along the sea wall between Dawlish and Dawlish Warren, members of the public are strongly advised not to attempt to walk this route at the current time.

“The area is unsafe, particularly with continued strong winds and waves; attempting to access it could place you at serious risk.  Please follow local safety advice and use alternative routes where available.

“Thank you for your understanding and for helping to keep yourself and others safe.”

Train services between Plymouth and Exeter were hit with buses being called in to ferry passengers.

Seafront roads throughout the area were closed off and there was widespread flooding.

Meadfoot sea wall was left with a gaping hole

SWISCo were working to clear debris and water as the seafront in Torquay was covered in sand - Torre Abbey Meadows was turned into a lake.

At the height of the storm high winds and massive waves were overtopping sea defences and a month's worth of rain fell in some areas.

Yellow warnings were issued for wind and rain, with hazardous coastal conditions.