A casualty department was evacuated and bomb-disposal experts were called when a suspicious package was discovered at a Bristol hospital.

       One man was arrested at Southmead Hospital, where cordons were put in place and armed police were called.

       The hospital cancelled all outpatient appointments and all visits to patients, and the public were asked to stay away.

       Avon and Somerset Police later said they did not believe the alert was terrorism-related.

       The force said: “Emergency services remain at the scene. The Explosive Ordinance Disposal team has also now arrived at the scene.

       “A public cordon remains in the area at this time and we’re grateful for the public’s continued patience.”

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       They said no injuries were reported but roads in the area were closed, but later the cordon was lifted and the area was declared safe.

       North Bristol NHS Trust, which declared a major incident, said: “We are currently responding to a security incident in our Emergency Department.

       “We’re asking all members of the public to please stay away from the Emergency Department at Southmead Hospital whilst this incident is ongoing.

       “This means that we have had to cancel all outpatient appointments and visiting today. We are unable to comment further at this time but will issue updates as soon as possible.”

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       Footage on social media showed people leaving the building, some wrapped in blankets, surrounded by police cars.