A controlled explosion has been carried out near the British Museum after what was thought to be a "suspicious package" was found.

The discovery was made in Great Russell Street near Montague Street just before 8.45am today (October 10).

Officers attended the scene and evacuated the surrounding area as they inspected the package.

A control explosion was carried out safely by specialist officers and the package was confirmed to be non-suspicious.

The area has now re-opened.

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: “On Thursday, 10 October police were called at 08:43hrs to the, WC1 following reports of a suspicious package.

"Officers attended the scene and evacuated the surrounding area as they inspected the package. A control explosion was carried out safely by specialist officers. The package was confirmed to be non-suspicious.

"The area has now been re-opened."