A BASINGSTOKE bank had to be evacuated after a gas leak in its premises.

Staff and customers had to leave the Halifax bank in Wote Street, Top of The Town, after reports of a suspected gas leak.

Three crews from Basingstoke Fire Station attended the scene at 10.33am, today (May 17.)

Due to safety concerns, the bank branch and a number of surrounding stores were evacuated while emergency services dealt with the incident.

A gas maintenance team were sent in to isolate the leak, while firefighters used ventilation equipment to clear the air in the branch.

Crews received the stop message at 3.47pm with staff being allowed back into the branch.  

A Halifax spokesperson said: “Due to unexpected essential gas maintenance the Halifax Basingstoke branch is currently closed. 

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers and hope to reopen the branch as soon as possible.”