Bluewater shopping centre has been evacuated after a fire alarm alert earlier this afternoon.

The Guildhall part of the centre in Greenhithe was evacuated at around 1.30pm today (August 21).

Three fire engines from Kent Fire and Rescue Service were called to reports of a fire alarm sounding.

The incident has since been stood down as fire crews confirmed it was a false alarm.

A spokesperson for Bluewater said that the centre is now open and it apologised to shoppers for any disruption.

The full statement from Bluewater says: “There was an evacuation of Guildhall earlier today, however there was no emergency, and the centre is now fully back open.

“We'd like to thank our guests for their cooperation during this evacuation and apologise for the disruption to their visit.

A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: “Fire crews were called at 1.30pm to Bluewater Shopping Centre after reports of a fire alarm sounding.

“Three fire engines attended and crews checked the units but it was a false alarm.”