Beachgoers have been warned to be on the lookout for dangerous military flares after a number were washed up on the north Norfolk coast following the recent high tides and strong winds.

Beachgoers have been warned to be on the lookout for dangerous military flares after a number were washed up on the north Norfolk coast following the recent high tides and strong winds.

Two phosphorous flares have been washed up near Blakeney in the last few days and have been dealt with by the authorities.

The cylindrical capsules measuring about two feet long and with a diameter of about four inches are marked 'US Navy'.

They have labels attached advising that they contain phosphorus and for the police or military to be contacted if found.

A police spokesman said this week: “These devices are used by the US Navy to assist in the location of submarines and contain phosphorus which is extremely volatile and will stick to, and burn the skin if they are handled.

“It is possible that a number of these devices will have been washed up on north Norfolk beaches.

“If such an object is found, they are not to be touched or any attempt made to move them.”

The advice is to contact police or the coastguard immediately.