Controlled explosion near Manchester venue blast: police

British police carried out a controlled explosion today near the Manchester Arena venue where a suspected blast killed 19 people and injured 50 more but later said the item was only abandoned clothing.

"There will be a controlled explosion in Cathedral Gardens shortly if you hearing anything don't be concerned," police said on Twitter, referring to a small park opposite the concert venue.

But a second tweet said: "Officers carrying out a precautionary controlled explosion in Cathedral Garden confirm that it was abandoned clothing, not a suspicious item".