Unexploded WW2 bomb 'could destroy homes' and put lives at risk

Police have warned people living close to an unexploded World War Two bomb that it could destroy their homes and put their lives at risk.

The bomb, measuring 5ft with a tail fin, was found by construction workers in Bermondsey yesterday.

Residents living within 200m of the site were evacuated today as Royal Logistic Corps bomb disposal experts continued to work on the bomb, and those living within 100m were asked to leave their homes yesterday.

In a leaflet given to residents living near the 1,000lb (454kg) ordnance, the Metropolitan Police said:

Scotland Yard's Southwark borough said in a tweet:

Southwark ward councillor Lucas Green denied that the police were causing unnecessary panic and said the response from emergency services and nearby residents had been "impressive".

Mr Green said the council rehoused approximately 100 people last night who could not return to their homes.

He added that the Red Cross had been helping to provide food and other supplies to people who had to be evacuated.