Panic at London Tube station after smoke from train

There were chaotic scenes at Clapham Common Tube station during Friday (5 May) rush hour after smoke was seen coming from a train.

Videos on social media showed members of the public trying to open the doors and smashing windows to help passengers escape.

However, both the London Fire Brigade and British Transport Police have said the incident, which happened shortly before 6pm, did not involve any fire.

An LFB spokesperson said: “Firefighters were called to a report of smoke issuing from a train at Clapham Common Underground Station.

“Crews attended but following investigation, found no sign or evidence of a fire. Investigations are ongoing but the smoke is believed to have been caused by the train's brakes.

“Around 500 people left the train before firefighters arrived. The Brigade has not received any reports of injuries.

“The Brigade was called at 1752 and the incident was over for firefighters by 1829. Crews from Battersea, Tooting and Brixton fire stations attended the scene.”

On Twitter BTP London added: “We received a report of a faulty train at Clapham Common shortly before 6pm this evening, and we are aware of a video showing passengers trying to leave the train.

“The issue is believed to have been caused by brake dust which can often be confused with burning.

“There were no reports of any injuries and the incident has now been resolved.”