Large parts of Britain including Essex shook this afternoon as the country experienced its biggest earthquake in 10 years.

A two-second tremor was felt by people across England and Wales as scientists confirmed a reading of between 4.4 and 4.9 on the Richter scale.

Thousands described their experience on social media after the mini-quake happened at 2.31pm.

Reports suggest it was felt in south Wales, south-west England, the West Midlands and North West.

Scientists at the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) described it as a "strong earthquake" and said south Wales was the epicentre.

Alison Morgan, who works at Uplands Newsagents in Swansea, said: "My colleague noticed it first and wine bottles in the shop were shaking and a tile fell off the ceiling. I thought it was a lorry going past but it was an earth tremor.

"It was a significant feeling that went on for about two seconds - I was moving from left to right suddenly despite being stood on the same spot.
"The last one I experienced was in the 1980s when I lived in Pembrokeshire."

Linda Davis said on Twitter: "Lying on my bed suffering from tonsillitis and my bed & chandelier shook, only a earthquake in Caerphilly near Cardiff ! All over the net....."

Laura Davies posted: "Felt very strong here in Cardiff #earthquake."
@Foodyfeed_efc said: "Definitely an earthquake in Liverpool about 10 / 15 mins ago. Windows rattled and bed shook from side to side. Thought I was going mental for a second."

Laura Hughes said: "The whole house just started shaking! Was then almost crushed by the dog jumping on me for protection... interesting way to die #Cardiff."

The British Geological Survey said: "We are in the process of analysing data for the felt report of a tremor in the South West of England. As soon as we know more we’ll let you know.

"Event epicentre approx 20km NNE of Swansea, with 4.4 magnitude at a depth of 7.4km."