A shopping centre in Kent was evacuated after scaffolding collapsed during Storm Gerrit.

Fire crews were called to Swanley Shopping Centre just after 4.30pm yesterday (Wednesday) after high winds caused the structure to collapse.

Crews helped to evacuate shoppers and made the area safe, before handing duty of care over to the landowner.

There has been no reported injuries.

Four fire engines, a height vehicle, and a technical rescue unit attended the scene.

The incident was over by 7.30pm the same day (December 27) for fire crews.

A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue said: “KFRS was called to Swanley Shopping Centre to reports of scaffolding collapsing in high winds. Four fire engines, a height vehicle, and a technical rescue unit attended.

“Crews helped to evacuate shoppers and made the area safe, before handing duty of care over to the landowner.

“There were no reported injuries.”

We have contacted the management of Swanley Shopping Centre for further information.