BIN-MEN received a shock when they discovered a handgun and a hand grenade in the rubbish.
Police received a report at 10.53am on Tuesday that a gun and a hand grenade had been found in the back of a dustcart in St Thomas’s Street, Ryde.
Police went to the scene where they found both items had been decommissioned and were safe.
The owner of the devices was tracked down and given appropriate information about how such items should be disposed of.
Sgt Andy Gill said: "If you find, or have, a firearm you no longer want or need to dispose of, even if it has been decommissioned, call the police. We can arrange for it to be dealt with appropriately.
"If you find a gun, a grenade or any suspected explosive device, leave it where it is and call the police immediately. We will assess it and arrange appropriate disposal."
Reporter: richardw@iwcpmail.co.uk