Forces loyal to the Libyan Leader Muammar Gaddafi have launched an assault on the rebel held city of Misrata 130 miles east of Tripoli.

There are reports that at least five people have been killed.

Colonel Gaddafi's son, Saif Gaddafi, has told a French news channel "everything will be over in 48 hours".

Jon Leyne reports from the still rebel-held city of Benghazi.