A major road into Maidstone was closed this evening after a man scaled a tower block and threatened to jump.

The man climbed the Miller Heights tower block and police say he was spotted on the roof, yet after an extensive search of the building, including a sweep by the police helicopter, no-one was found.

Lower Stone Street was shut from Gala Bingo to the junction with Knightrider Street and Upper Stone Street at about 5pm.

Drinkers in the Fisherman's Arms pub opposite were initially told by police to remain inside.

An eyewitness, who asked not to be named, said: "I want to know how they get up there. It's a joke, it must be easily accessible, this is the second time as well."

Watch: There was a heavy police presence in the town centre

The man was referring to an incident in December last year when Martin Tiplady was jailed following an 11-hour anti-police protest from the tenth floor.

Maidstone was severely congested as a result of the road closure, with traffic moving very slowly on all approaches to the town centre.

At 6.30pm an ambulance on blue lights turned up at the scene. The police helicopter was also spotted hovering overhead.

Two lanes of Lower Stone Street were opened at about 6pm, and the road was fully reopened at about 7pm.