Firefighters tackled a blaze in Swanscombe yesterday afternoon (May 22) after smoke was seen billowing from the roof of a house.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) received a 999 call just before 4pm, with reports of a blaze at a two-storey house in Craylands Lane.

Around 15 people from neighbouring pub The Rising Sun, and about 10 people from adjoining homes had to be evacuated to a local leisure centre while firefighters spent almost two hours battling flames.  Crews entered the property wearing breathing equipment to locate the fire, which was spreading through the first floor, front bedroom and roof space.

Crews from three fire engines used a hose reel and covering jet to tackle the blaze.

Dartford Watch Manager, John Allwright, said: “The staff at the local leisure centre and pub were fantastic, really supportive as were the immediate community, who really pulled together, helping to provide welfare for the residents and the firefighters.

“The rapid response and actions by the crew were outstanding, they did an excellent job of stopping the fire inside the house and the loft and preventing it spreading to neighbouring properties.  "Once the fire was out crews also visited neighbouring properties, fitting working smoke alarms where needed and talking to people about keeping safe from fire.”

Yesterday evening a spokesman for the fire brigade said there were no reports of any injuries.

Kent Police will carry out an investigation into the cause of the fire later today.