In pictures: Escape from Bouake

French soldiers deployed in Ivory Coast evacuate hundreds of French citizens and other foreign nationals from the city of Bouake, the scene of heavy fighting between government and rebel forces.

The French troops quickly gained control of the main roads into the city

Among those trapped in the city are the Sierra Leonean football team, in the city for a tournament

Armed rebels are still roaming the streets, but they have agreed to maintain a ceasefire during the evacuation

The rebels seem to enjoy a great deal of support among the locals

The French troops successfully rescued about 160 children yesterday who had been trapped in the city's international school

For many of the Westerners who have been evacuated the anxiety of the past few days will start to recede

But for the locals left behind the situation remains extremely dangerous