Six fire engines were called to the Hilton Brighton Metropole this morning (Friday) after reports of smoke coming from the hotel's basement.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service was called to the hotel at about  11.20am.

The service said initial reports suggested smoke was coming from the basement. The hotel was evacuated but there were no visible signs of fire.

UPDATE: Guests and staff  returned to the hotel by 12.40pm.

A statement from the hotel said: “We can confirm that smoke was detected at Hilton Brighton Metropole this morning. The safety and security of our guests and Team Members is our utmost priority and all were evacuated from the building immediately.

"The source of the smoke is currently being confirmed. The local fire brigade have completed safety and procedural checks and cleared the building for guests and Team Members to re-enter. We would like to thank our guests for their understanding and cooperation with the evacuation and commend our staff for their swift and professional response.”