Police have confirmed that the body of a man and a woman have been discovered a flat in Wimbledon after a suspected gas leak. 

A spokesman for the Metropolitan police said they were alerted at 1.15pm to "concerns for the welfare of the occupants of a flat in Oxford House, Parkside."

He added: "We forced entry and immediately officers raised concerns about the potential presence of gas. Residents were evacuated as a precaution. 

"The bodies of a man and a woman were found inside the flat. Formal identification will follow. 

"Merton police are investigating and enquiries are underway to establish the circumstances."

Oxford House is a block of 18 flats located next to Parkside Hospital.

The A219 Parkside has now re-opened, with heavy traffic expected in the area. The road was previously closed southbound between Windmill Road and Parkside, with closures also affecting Somerset Road. 

Elliot Roberts, manager of the nearby Windmill Tea Rooms, said he had heard the road was closed "because of something to do with chemicals."

He added: "Others have seen people in hazmat suits."

A spokesman for the London Fire Brigade said six fire engines and "other specialist resources" had been sent to a block of flats in Parkside, but would not comment further on what had happened.

A policeman at Oxford House this evening confirmed residents would be able to return home tonight.

Do you know what happened? Contact the newsdesk on 020 8722 6337 or pippa.allen@newsquest.co.uk

More to follow.