A woman’s body has been found near a shopping centre.

Police officers, fire and ambulance crews were called to Bluewater in Greenhithe, near Dartford, on Sunday (January 19) following concerns for a woman’s welfare.

Shoppers said they saw a large emergency service presence near John Lewis at around 4.30pm and the area had been taped off but believed it to be a training exercise.

However, following a search, police patrols found a body and paramedics confirmed a woman in her 50s had been found dead.

Her next of kin has been informed.

The death is not being treated as suspicious and a report is being completed for the coroner.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service confirmed it sent two fire engines and a water safety unit to the scene to assist officers and paramedics.