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Hundreds of visitors were cleared from the British Museum as police responded to reports of a suspect vehicle. A controlled explosion was later heard as the evacuation continued in the heart of London. Photos taken at the scene show a park area sealed off by police, with thousands of visitors gathered outside the museum.

Russell Square evacuated, latest pictures from the scene Fri, July 21, 2017 Visitors were evacuated from the British Museum Play slideshow Twitter 1 of 6 Scene at Russell Square, London

Shocked social media users reported hearing an explosion as they were evacuated. One said on Twitter: "A loud bang followed by sirens...weve just been told that there's been an incident and we need to leave the building." Another said: "Building on right is my office. Could see police cordons then was asked to vacate office."

TWITTER Russell Square has been evacuated and an explosion has been heard

Another said: "Work place evacuated due to suspect package near Russell Square. Heard what I assume was a controlled explosion." A fourth said: "Something kicking off at russell square - police tape everywhere around some coaches."

TWITTER Visitors being evacuated from the British Museum this afternoon

The British Museum said: “The Museum is evacuated temporarily due to a security concern nearby. We apologise and will update when we can.” The Met Police told Express.co.uk the security alert was as a result of an unattended vehicle.

TWITTER Police tape at Russell Square after a security alert this afternoon