Counter-terror police are investigating three packages containing explosives found at Heathrow Airport, London City Airport and Waterloo station.

The “small improvised explosive devices” were found in A4 postal bags, the Metropolitan Police said.

The force’s Counter Terrorism Command is treating it as a “linked series” and “keeping an open mind” about motives.

Irish police are assisting the Met as the Heathrow and Waterloo packages had Republic of Ireland stamps.

Heathrow’s Compass Centre was evacuated after a package was reported to police at about 09:55 GMT.

The device caught fire when staff opened the bag.