Gravesend’s Community Square was once again packed with people this morning – but this time there wasn’t an elf in sight.

A week on from the world record-breaking attempt, which saw 948 elves gather in the same spot, the place was heaving again.

This time, it was all down to some burnt toast.

The Civic Centre had to be evacuated after the fire alarm went off in the brasserie. Staff and visitors filed out, including the Mayor, Cllr Derek Sales, and his wife Pam.

A Gravesham council spokesman said: “Some toast was burnt in Spotlites brasserie setting off the alarms. The smoke lingered in the air and the alarm went off despite being reset.

“We are asking customers to have their toast medium rare in future.”