Bomb squad called to women's hospital in Liverpool after reports of 'car explosion'

A bomb squad has been called to a hospital in Liverpool amid a huge emergency response following unconfirmed reports of an "explosion" being heard.

Anyone trying to enter the car park of the Women’s Hospital is being turned away, reports the Liverpool Echo.

A photo of a car on fire has been shared on social media, while another shows the car burnt out.

It's sat long ways ahead of several bays, just inches from other parked vehicles.

A police cordon is in place with multiple emergency vehicles parked outside, while a Royal Logistic Corps army vehicle has also been pictured at the scene.

The scene of a major police incident at Liverpool Women's Hospital this afternoon (Liverpool Echo)

One witness said there was a "loud bang and now dark smoke" coming from above one the buildings at the site.

A short video shot from an adjacent hillside overlooking the hospital shows smoke billowing into the air, while emergency sirens and banging sounds are heard in the background.

Merseyside Police has issued a statement regarding the cordon around the hospital.

A number of surrounding roads have also been closed.

A force helicopter is circling overhead, according to a local reporter at the scene.

Emergency crews race to hospital as police and medics descend after 'car fire' (Liverpool Echo)

The police statement reads: "We can confirm that an incident occurred at around 11am today (Sunday 14 November) outside Liverpool Women’s Hospital.

"A cordon around the affected area has been established and a number of surrounding roads have been closed.

"Emergency services are currently at the scene assessing the situation."

They have issued no further details at this time.

Police are, however, advising people to avoid the area.

Kim Johnson, Labour MP for Liverpool Riverside, tweeted: "Very worrying news of an incident outside Liverpool Women's Hospital, with large emergency presence.

"Hoping staff, patients and visitors are safe. Please avoid the area."

It is understood the incident has led to the re-routing or partial cancellation of the Remembrance Sunday parade after today’s service at Liverpool Cathedral.

Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust has been contacted for comment.

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