POLICE have closed an Italian restaurant in Salisbury tonight in connection with an ongoing major incident involving a former Russian spy.

Zizzi, in Castle Street, has been secured after Sergei Skripal, 66, and a woman in her thirties were found unconscious on a bench in the Maltings last night.

They had no visible injuries and are currently in critical condition at Salisbury District Hospital after they were exposed to an "unknown substance". 

A police spokesman said: "A restaurant in Salisbury City Centre has been closed in connection with the on-going major incident.

"Zizzi, on Castle Street, has been secured as a precaution by Wiltshire Police while the investigation continues.

"Public Health England are aware of this and have reiterated that, based on the evidence to date, there is no known risk to the public's health.

"However, as a precaution they have advised that if you feel ill contact the NHS on 111. If you feel your own or another’s health is significantly deteriorating, ring 999."