At least two people have been killed and more than 80 others hurt after two explosions near the finish line of the Boston Marathon, police have said.

The blasts took place about two hours after the winners crossed the line, with one explosion on the north side of Boylston Street, just before the photo bridge that marks the finish.

Another happened a few seconds later, about 50-100 metres away, believed to be further back down the street.

Some runners were making their way across the finish line as the drama unfolded, and TV helicopter footage showed blood on the pavement in the popular shopping and tourist area known as the Back Bay.

There were reports of a third blast at the JFK library a few miles away but that was later confirmed as a fire that was believed to be unrelated to the blasts.

Participants in the marathon were seen lying on the ground as the explosions tore through the finish line, sending smoke and debris soaring into the air.

Watch video and read more: http://news.sky.com/story/1078642/boston-marathon-explosions-leave-two-dead

Source: Sky News (UK)