Hundreds of shoppers were evacuated after firefighters were called to a town's shopping centre.

Crews arrived at the Pentagon Centre in Chatham shortly after 12.40pm.

Two fire engines were at the scene responding to reports of smoke coming from the area but the exact nature was not known.

Witnesses say dozens of people were outside the building with police also called to the area near Chatham bus station.

Bliss Nayler, who was inside the complex, said: "The Pentagon fire alarm went off at about 12.30pm in which everyone was evacuated. The fire service came promptly and have been here since then.

"At one point there were three fire engines but now there are only two. I did hear someone say it was because someone was smoking in Wilko but can’t confirm."

Alexandra Kryc, who works at the Nucleus Lounge Cafe in Military Road, said: "I can see the firefighters outside and there are people standing around."

A member of staff at the Pentagon said: "I am not allowed to say anything but we believe everyone is safe and well."

By 1.40pm firefighters and police were leaving the area and people were returning back inside the centre.

Our reporter at the scene said they could see the fire service and police assisting people who had been evacuated with people gathered outside the bus station.

A woman at H Samuels jewellers, who did not wished to be named, said she could see a commotion, but the shop was open as normal.

A fire service spokesman confirmed two engines were sent to the scene but following an inspection by crews, there were no signs of fire and they left at 1.36pm.

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