Train lines have re-opened and emergency services have left the scene after Battersea Power Station after a suspected bomb saw the siate evacuated.

Police were first called to the site at 3.17pm today after workers discovered what was described as a suspicious item. This was later identified as a acetylene cylinder had been ruptured during work on phase one of the huge multibillion pound regeneration of the site

With the help of the fire service a 200m perimeter and evacuated workers at the Kirtling Street site just after 4pm and all rail services in and out of Victoria station were suspended.

Emergency services have now left the scene and rail lines have been re-opened but operators Southern Rail and South Eastern Rail are both warning passengers to expect severe delays.

Wandsworth Times:

Pic from Chris Oldfield

They have offered no estimate for how long the delays could be in place.

Rail tickets are being accepted on Transport for London and National Rail services.

A spokesman for Battersea Power Station said:

“There was always a possibility that in the course of excavation works on the land around Battersea Power Station an item of this nature could be uncovered. 

"Our overriding concern is to maintain the safety and welfare of those working on the site and the immediate locality and to this end the construction site was evacuated pending further guidance from the emergency services.

"We would like to apologise for any disruption caused to train passengers earlier this afternoon.”