Emergency services in Scotland are treating 'multiple casualties' following a chemical leak in the swimming pool of East Sands Leisure Centre in Fife.

A total of 19 people are receiving medical assistance for breathing difficulties. Several fire engines are also in attendance and the area has been cordoned off while emergency services deal with the incident.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has reportedly said it is dealing with sodium hypochlorite – a chemical compound commonly used as a disinfectant or bleaching agent when dissolved in water.

There are have been no fatalities, although a number of people have been taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.

The leisure centre is operated by Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, which manages a number of sport and leisure facilities on behalf of Fife Council.

A Fife Sports and Leisure Trust statement said: "At approximately 1pm today, emergency services were called to East Sands Leisure Centre in St Andrews following a suspected chemical leak. All customers and staff were able to evacuate the building safely without assistance, however, 19 people, including two members of staff, were referred for medical assistance for minor breathing irritation."

"Emergency services and staff are still on site but all customers have left the area. The exact cause of the incident is still being investigated by the emergency services and there is no threat to the surrounding area. We will continue to work with emergency services and will keep customers updated as to the status of the centre via our website."