STAFF were evacuated from a hospital after coolant began leaking from a fridge.

Fire crews were called to Kent and Sussex Hospital, Tunbridge Wells, after staff noticed a strong, amonia-like smell coming from the fridge on the third floor at the back of the building on Monday afternoon.

Bob Gardner, watch manager at Tunbridge Wells fire station, said about four or five staff were evacuated from nearby nursing stations and offices. No one was hurt.

Mr Gardner said: "We managed to deal with the incident without having to evacuate a high dependency unit next door. No one was in any danger at any time."

The incident happened on the third floor link way between Culverden Ward and the older part of the building at the front.

Two firefighters wearing protective chemical suits and breathing apparatus removed the fridge to the fresh air and then ventilated the affected part of the building.

Mr Gardner added: "You never know how these things can escalate so we have to take proper precautions."