Bluewater department store John Lewis was evacuated (file picture)

Hundreds of people had to be evacuated from John Lewis at Bluewater today after a chemical scare.

Around 15 firefighters were sent to the department store at the Greenhithe shopping centre to investigate a suspected leak from a fridge.

The store was evacuated for around an hour-and-a-half while crews dealt with the scene.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service said three fire engines were called at about 11.45am.

At 1.10pm, the brigade said the leak had been dealt with and crews were leaving the scene.

Officers from Kent Police helped fire crews evacuate the store.

Paramedics from South East Coast Ambulance Service were also sent on standby.