Properties on Silver Street, alongside Maldon High Street, were forced to evacuate on Friday (May 24) after a gas leak.

Emergency workers attended the scene at around 9 am on May 24, recording a "high level of gas."

Some properties on Silver Street were evacuated, including popular High Street business Maldon Books.

In a message on Facebook, Maldon Books apologised to customers after it was forced to close: "We're so sorry everyone but we're unfortunately not able to open for the rest of the day. 

"We do apologise if you were planning on visiting us today, there are high levels of gas due to the leak in the road."

A spokesperson for gas provider Cadent, told BBC News: "The decision was made to clear a number of properties with assistance from our colleagues in the police and fire service."

In an update on Friday afternoon, the company did not have a timescale for when people could return to their properties.

The leak had caused concerns for today's (May 25) Ride London races, as the street lies alongside the finish line of the elite classique. 

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However the event went ahead as planned this morning, with Maldon Books also returning to normal operation.