Kent Police has quashed rumours of a 'hostage incident' at Bluewater shopping centre, after panic broke out on social media.

After reports began to circulate about a man with a gun around the Greenhithe area and armed police in the area, Police were quick to set the record straight.

A spokeswoman from Kent Police has confirmed a man has been taken to hospital after concerns for his wellbeing.

She said: "Kent Police was called at 11.41am on Friday 25 May 2018 to a report of a distressed man inside a property in Cobham Terrace, Greenhithe.

"Officers attended along with South East Coast Ambulance Service and a man was taken to a local hospital as a precaution."

She also confirmed that armed officers had attended the scene and recovered an 'imitation firearm'.

South East Coast Ambulance Service has been contacted for more information.