Craig Mackinlay outside the office in West Malling. Picture: Martin Apps

The campaign office of a candidate in Kent's police chief election was evacuated - after staff opened an envelope containing sand.

The drama unfolded when a worker discovered the substance stuffed inside a copy of Conservative Craig Mackinlay's manifesto at about midday.

A full-scale emergency response was launched amid a chemical alert after it was sent to the Conservative office in West Malling.

Staff phoned Kent Police - and were told to leave the High Street building because of the suspect package.

Around 30 police officers and fire crews wearing breathing equipment were sent to the scene, which was taped off.

Firefighters tested the equipment at about 1.30pm - and discovered in was harmless sand.

The emergency response at the West Malling Tory office. Picture: Martin Apps

Mr Mackinlay, a Medway councillor and pictured left, is the Conservative candidate in the Kent police commissioner election taking place in November.

He was among those evacuated from the West Malling office.

Speaking at the scene, photographer Martin Apps said: "The High Street is full of activity, with fire engines and police cars. Mr Mackinlay and his staff are outside the building giving details to the police officers.

"There are three police cars, a fire engine and a command unit. Despite the drama, everyone's staying calm."