Residents were warned to keep windows and doors closed after leaking drums sparked a chemical alert.

Firefighters, police and an incident support unit were called just before 11am following the discovery of the drums in an alleyway between Hyacinth Road and Carnation Road in Strood.

Crews in four fire engines arrived on the scene and urged neighbours to stay inside as a precaution.

It has since emerged the three drums contained paint thinners.

Teams placed them in a container and arrangements have been made for the council to collect and dispose of them.

The warning to residents was lifted just before 1pm.