In pictures: Lebanon evacuation

As the crisis in the Middle East deepens, 180 Britons have been the first UK nationals to be rescued by sea. So far, 5,000 Britons are expected to be removed in the coming days.

In the biggest British evacuation since World War II, young children and their parents were the first to be taken by warship HMS Gloucester.

In total, there are 22,000 British nationals - including those with dual nationality - in Lebanon. During the recent Middle East crisis, at least 270 Lebanese people have died.

The first sea evacuation was a trial run, say officials. On Wednesday, another 800 Britons are due to leave Beirut.

HMS Gloucester's crew are well-trained for the mission. Its captain Commander Mike Paterson says such an operation is the crew's 'bread and butter'.

Evacuees are in good spirits after leaving Beirut, says Commander Mike Paterson.

A chartered flight to take the evacuees to the UK will leave from the British base of Akrotiri in Cyprus

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