WW2 bomb found in Lewisham prompts evacuation of school and shops

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A school has been closed and a several shops and homes evacuated after a suspected Second World War bomb was found in Lewisham.

Police were called to a building site on Boone Street at 9.14 and a bomb disposal squad are investigating.

The suspected World War II ordnance was found "just behind the Marks & Spencer near the petrol station", according to local card shop Lewisham Card.

A 200-metre cordon is currently in place, and police anticipate it will be there for some time.

St Margaret's Lee CE Primary School has been evacuated and several nearby roads are closed. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area.

The army have also been called in to deal with the bomb, Chief Superintendent Kate Haplin, Lewisham's borough commander, announced at 3.30pm.

She said: "The bomb has been undisturbed for many years, so having been disturbed by building works today, we were concerned of the potential risk this could cause.

"For the safety of the public a large cordon was put in place and some homes, schools and businesses evacuated. That cordon remains in place, and at this stage I am unable to say when it is likely to be lifted."

She added: "I recognised the impact and disruption this has caused the community and I am very grateful for the cooperation we have received so far.

"The safety of the of the public is paramount and we are now working with the army, who are using their skill and experience to safely bring this incident to its conclusion."