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Patients at Wishaw General Hospital were evacuated this afternoon following reports of a "bomb threat".

Pictures on social media began to emerge at around 5pm of the scene at the North Lanarkshire hospital showing elderly patients, medics, nurses and doctors gathered outside.

Locals took to social media to express concern over reports of the incident.

Jean Ledwith commented: "Wits (sic) happening at wishaw general just drove by an its being evacuated all the patients ar outside in there beds place is black."

Scottish Labour MSP Anas Sarwar described the news of the evacuation as "distressing" in a Facebook post.

He said: "Distressing news this evening that Wishaw General Hospital had to be evacuated because of what is believed to have been a bomb threat. Thankfully all seems fine and patients and staff are now back are in. I'm seeking further clarification. Thoughts with all staff, patients and any visiting family and friends."

(Image: Facebook/John McLean)

A police spokeswoman said: “Around 4.40pm on Tuesday, officers from Police Scotland and other emergency services were alerted to an alarm activation at Wishaw General Hospital.

“Police officers attended and a search was carried out in conjunction with hospital security staff. The building was assessed as secure it was believed to be a system fault with the alarm.

“There was no impact on the health and safety of patients and normal hospital service resumed.”