A WORCESTER pub "shook" as a Second World War mortar discovered by workmen in a nearby field was detonated by bomb disposal experts.

Bartender Kate Little said the controlled explosion behind The Swan, at Whittington, at 4pm yesterday left staff and punters aghast.

"The whole place really shook," she said.

Army experts worked for more than an hour to determine whether the 1940s mortar shell, found in a field next to the dual carriageway by a construction worker, was live.

Pupils from nearby Whittington Primary were picked up before the disposal team carried out the controlled explosion on the two-inch device.

One teacher, who did not want to be named, said they were warned at around 3pm.

"Police told us at the school there was an unexploded bomb down the road," she said.

"We were advised by police to get the children out sharpish when school ended at 3.15pm, but we weren't told to evacuate.

"We were also told to tell parents if they could not get out of the road, they should go through the village."

Traffic from the M5 roundabout at Junction 7 to Swinesherd Way was brought to a standstill while a risk assessment was carried out.

Roads in the area were opened by 4.20pm.

Spokesman for Worcester police, Kim Stain, said at no point was there a threat to people or livestock.

"It was an incendiary device found about 20 yards from The Swan by someone carrying out work. We would like to thank residents and businesses for the co-operation which ensured things went smoothly."