Boaters at Three Mills Island in East London were evacuated from their moorings last night after an unexploded World War II bomb was found in the river near Sugar House Lane. Three narrow boats stayed at the film studio moorings when the channel closed for work on the new Prescott Lock, but all were advised not to return to their boats as a precaution, although they lie just outside the 200m exclusion zone.

The residents were allowed back briefly last night under police escort to collect essential personal items and are expecting to stay in hotel accommodation for at least the next day or two.

Rail lines cross the river close to the site of the bomb, and commuters also face disruption following the closure of parts of the District Line, and Hammersmith and City line, whilst the Army investigate the device.

Cordons are expected to be in place for three days and there are restrictions along the River Lee navigation from Bow Locks to Old Ford Locks.