A VETERINARY surgery has been evacuated after reports of a strong smell of chemicals.

Seven fire crews have rushed to Medivet, in Springfield Road, Chelmsford, after receiving an emergency call shortly before 11am.

An Essex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Three fire engines from Chelmsford and Great Baddow responded to the call along with the HAZMAT and DIM (Detection, Identification and Monitoring) vehicles with their support pumps and a number of specialist fire officers.

"All persons and animals were evacuated from the property. Crews wearing breathing apparatus entered the building to carry out a search.

*This incident is ongoing. Further information will be provided shortly.*