Two central London railway stations were closed after a gas main ruptured in the West End, causing major disruption for commuters. Almost 1,500 people were evacuated from a nightclub and a hotel early on Tuesday as the leak was discovered close to the Strand.

Emergency services were called to the capital's tourist district at about 2am when high levels of natural gas were detected in Craven Street. By mid-morning, engineers said the pipe had been repaired and properties were being checked for gas before they could be reopened.

Nearby roads and Charing Cross station were closed along with Waterloo East station, which is served by the same Southeastern trains. Shortly after midday, all cordons were taken down and the stations were reopened.

Commuters had endured major rush-hour disruption, with services diverted into Victoria, Cannon Street and Blackfriars. National Rail said trains might continue to be disrupted until 3pm.

Witnesses earlier described "chaos" as doormen at the Heaven nightclub ordered them to leave, while guests at the Amba Hotel were moved into emergency accommodation. Nearby flats and offices were also evacuated.