Birmingham city centre was put on lockdown tonight following reports of a "massive" explosion.

There was panic on the streets after it was rocked by the huge blast at around 8.15pm, with police, fire and ambulance crews were all scrambled to the area. Roads surrounding Centenary Square and Broad Street, the city's main entertainment district, were also closed.

West Midlands Police soon revealed the explosion had originated in a staff area of the Repertory Theatre following a "technical fault" and there had been no injuries.

The force tweeted: "All emergency services are currently at Birmingham's Repertory Theatre, Broad St following reports of an explosion.

"Initial indications are that this was a technical fault in a staff only area. No casualties are reported.

"Everyone has been evacuated and are being kept safe. All roads around @BirminghamRep & @LibraryofBham are closed following an explosion in a staff only area of the theatre.

"Please stay away."