A CRITICAL incident was declared at Basingstoke's hospital after smoke was reportedly seen coming from its emergency department.

The incident happened in the morning on Tuesday, March 12 at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital on Aldermaston Road.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "A critical incident was declared this morning in response to the presence of smoke in the Emergency Department at our Basingstoke Hospital site."

They added: “Four patients have been safely evacuated and an ambulance divert is currently in place.

READ MORE: Critical incident stood down after smoke spotted at Basingstoke hospital

“The matter is being calmly handled; the public can support by seeking treatment at other sites until the incident is stood down.”

Basingstoke Gazette: A fire engine at the hospital in Basingstoke

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that they were also called to the scene but on arrival crews found no fire.

A spokesperson added: "Firefighters from Basingstoke, Tadley, Odiham, Fleet, Rushmoor, Sutton Scotney and Winchester were called to an alarm sounding at North Hampshire Hospital shortly before 9:30am this morning."

The crews left the scene shortly after arriving at 10:20am.

Later that day a spokesperson for the hospital confirmed to the Gazette that the critical incident had been stood down.