Charing Cross: Fire alert sparks evacuation of central London station

Charing Cross station was evacuated today because of a fire alert sparked by the smell of smoke.

The busy London station was cleared at around 11.45am as fire engines were sent to the scene to investigate.

The London Fire Brigade said the incident was stood down at 12.11pm and the station has now reopened.

Passenger Tracy Weston said: "I was sat waiting for my train and alarms went off with announcement all passengers leave by closest exit.

"The evacuation was executed very well. Three fire engines and police cars arrived.

"I was stood outside for over half an hour and my train was cancelled.

"No explanation was given when we were finally let back in."

LFB tweeted: "Our firefighters are investigating a smell of smoke at #CharingCross rail station. More soon."

Firefighters later confirmed they were leaving the station.