An earthquake that has measured 6.1 on the Richter scale has rattled Rome and Central Italy in the middle of night.

Another quake has hit, measuring 4.8 in magnitude but it was shallow, at just 4KM deep, meaning damage is widespread.

The mayor of a small town Amatrice, with a population of 2,730 has called the earthquake a disaster.

Speaking to local radio, Radio Rai, he said "I'm trying to contact the services. The town doesn't exist anymore. The ancient doors have come down. We need help from the civic protection."

"There is no light, it's all gone off. It's all rubble, it's a tragedy."

Mr Pirozzi went on to say: "We are trying to organise to clear the streets. I haven't managed to get to the hospital yet."

The European-Mediterranean Seismological Center put the magnitude at 6.1 and said the epicentre was northeast of Rome, near Rieti.