President Obama issues message to nation

President Obama has just issued a statement to the press regarding the explosions that have rocked the Boston Marathon:

"Good afternoon everybody. Earlier today I was briefed by our homeland security team in boston…I've directed the full resources of the Federal Government..The American people will say a prayer for the people of Boston tonight…we don't yet have all the answers. We do know that multiple people have been wounded. I've spoken to FBI Director…We reaffirm that on days like this there are no Republicans or Democrats. We are Americans….All Americans stand with the people of Boston."

"We salute all those that assisted and responded"

"We still don't know who did this or why. We will find out who did this, and why they did this."

"Boston is a tough and resilient town, so are its people. The American people will be with them every step of the way….Our teams will provide you briefings. We are still in the investigation at this stage."

Please note this is a partial audio transcription of the President's speech moments ago. The full speech will be available via the White House website in due course. Thanks for reading.

Update:

Emergency number set up in Boston : +1 617 635 4500.