Three people needed medical treatment after they reported a chemical substance had been sprayed through a letter box.

The area around Reed Avenue and Sturry Road, Canterbury, was evacuated for eight hours as emergency services dealt with the incident.

Police, fire and ambulance crews arrived at the scene in Tennyson Avenue around 12.30pm on Thursday after three occupants inside the property reported a chemical substance being sprayed through the letterbox.

They complained of suffering irritation to the eyes and nausea and were treated by paramedics at the scene.

Tests of the substance were taken by specialist chemical officers from Kent Fire and Rescue Service. Initial results revealed it to be either a CS or pepper spray.

People were allowed back in their homes at 7.50pm.