ARMY bomb experts carried out a controlled explosion on a suspicious car parked outside a police station in Bristol city centre this evening.

Avon and Somerset police said an explosive device was used to get into the vehicle and that military bomb disposal officers are still at the scene.

Parts of the city centre are still closed off after the vehicle was discovered earlier today sparking fears of terror attack.

The Volkswagen Golf was parked illegally outside the Bridewell Police Station and after examination by the Army, was found not to pose any threat.

Two small controlled explosions were carried out on the car to gain access to it.

The vehicle has been removed and efforts are being made to locate the owner.

Eye witness Rory Sparshott told the BBC: “There was a loud bang about 10 -15 minutes ago (at about 5pm).

“It appears they (the police) were expecting it. It was certainly a big bang, I would be surprised if it was anything other than an explosion.”

Police said the car raised suspicion earlier this afternoon by a member of staff at the police station who thought it was “strange” after the car had been left there.

Avon and Somerset Police Chief Supt Jon Reilly said : “The decision to close the roads was not taken lightly and I’d like to thank the public and local traders for their patience and support while we dealt with the matter.

“We take all suspicious incidents seriously and will take all the precautions necessary to ensure the public are safe and feel safe”, he added.