Gardaí are trying to trace a man seen fleeing the scene of a bomb attack in Dublin city centre last night.

A car was blown up on Long Lane at around 11pm. A man with injuries was seen leaving the scene.

Gardaí have appealed to a taxi driver who they believe picked up the man, who was bleeding, at the junction of New Street and Clanbrassil Street, heading towards St Patrick's Cathedra,l to contact them.

It is thought the man was picked up outside a take-away and public house.

Any taxi drivers who may have been approached by the man have also been urged to contact gardaí.

The army bomb disposal team was called and the scene remained sealed off today for a forensic examination.

It is believed a pipe bomb was used in the attack, which damaged nearby cars and caused slight damage to some homes in the area.

Gardaí say no residents were injured but a man was seen hobbling away bleeding shortly after the attack.

Detectives are checking with hospitals and are anxious to speak to the man in connection with the explosion.

They have appealed for witnesses to contact Kevin Street Garda Station on 01 6669400.