A DRAMATIC stand-off between police and a man who threatened to set fire to himself in Darenth finally ended after eight hours.

Police, firefighters and paramedics were called to Wood Lane at 2pm yesterday afternoon. (June 14)

Following hours of negotiation, the man in his 60s was talked down at around 10pm yesterday evening and arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.

He was treated at the scene by paramedics and taken to hospital.

Reports posted online suggested there were more than 20 emergency service vehicles in Darenth at one time, including armed police officers.

One eye-witness, a neighbour who wished not be named, told News Shopper she had been waiting outside the corden since 4.15pm because she could not get to her home in Wood Lane.

She said: "There's been a lot of police cars,  fire engines and policemen in bullet proof vests. This is a quiet road. 

"Officers tried to persuade him to come out and he eventually came, without violence. 

"You don't expect to come home from work to find this."

It is believed the man suffers from mental health problems.

She added: "He keeps himself to himself. I feel sorry for him, the poor man."

Two fire engines from Dartford and Thames-side were on stand-by to assist police if needed.

Wood Lane was closed during the incident but reopened shortly after 10.30pm.

A Kent Police spokesman said: "Officers were first called to a disturbance in the area at 2pm and contained the incident to a single address.

"One man was safely taken into custody at 10pm. He has been taken to hospital for assessment.

"Officers would like to thank members of the public for their co-operation and patience during the incident."

This afternoon a woman claimed she saw the man set fire to himself which sparked the eight-hour stand off.