High Street Kensington station evacuated after fire alert

High Street Kensington station was evacuated this afternoon after a fire alert.

British Transport Police said a fire alarm went off in the shopping centre above the station and the Tube station was closed as a precautionary measure.

Police at the scene that the alert had been triggered by a short circuit and fire fighters were working to establish the cause.

London Fire Brigade were called at 12.29pm and confirmed three fire engines had been sent to the scene.

A spokesperson said an electrical room at a parade of shops near the station had flooded, and fire fighters were working to shut off power.

The station was closed, with passengers directed to walk to Earl's Court or Gloucester Road stations to continue their journeys.

The station had reopened by about 2pm, although some homes and businesses nearby were still without power.