Chester Market, in Exchange Square, where the incident happened

Several people have been rushed to hospital after a suspected gas explosion in Chester.

It is yet unclear what the damage at Chester Market, in Exchange Square, is after a ‘small’ blast at a store earlier today.

Cheshire Police confirmed three people sustained ‘serious burn injuries’ and were passed into the care of paramedics.

Emergency services were called after 6.30pm and currently remain at the scene.

Hunter Street has been closed off, and police have put a cordon in place as this is still an ‘ongoing’ incident.

The surrounding buildings have been evacuated as a precaution, and people have been urged to stay clear of the area.

This is an ongoing incident.