A simulated chemical attack was staged at Dreamland to test the skills of the emergency services.

The huge combined training operation – involving police, fire and ambulance personnel – took place at the Margate theme park on Monday.

More than 200 people and emergency vehicles participated in the exercise, which simulated the response to a crowd of about 6,500 people being exposed to a potentially-harmful chemical.

One major element of the drills was the testing of mass decontamination processes, with Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) crews building shower units and guiding the public through the process.

People living and working in the area were reassured about the significant emergency service presence to avoid any concerns.

Brennan Ralls, KFRS crew manager at Margate fire station, said: “This exercise is great opportunity to work together with our partners and colleagues, to ensure we are always prepared to respond to any emergency.”

The exercise at the seaside theme park and event venue lasted most of the day.

Shane Guy, head of operations at Dreamland, said: “Dreamland is delighted to be working with the emergency services and supporting agencies to deliver real time training for a major incident.

“Our staff and management team, together with our partners, will all benefit from this important exercise.”

Dave Williams, head of specialist operations at South East Coast Ambulance Service, said: “It is vital that we participate in exercises such as this so we can test and learn from our response.”