Households in parts of Dartford were advised to close windows and doors while firefighters battled a large grassland blaze.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service sent six engines and a bulk water carrier to the scene of the blaze near to Chapel Drive and Cotton Lane at around 7.15pm last night.

By 9.30pm the service said it had made good progress and the blaze was under control.

Crew manager Jason Hills from Dartford Fire Station said crews were able to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby property - including a bowls club, judo club and electricity pylons.

People living nearby were advised to keep doors and windows closed as crews battled the blaze.

Firefighters remained on the scene damping down until 10.15pm.

There are no reported injuries and the cause is not yet known, but crew manager Hills said it is not believed to be suspicious.

He reiterated safety advice advising people not to discard cigarettes and to be wary of other sources of ignition on grassland in dry conditions.