A total six fire engines were needed to tackle a blaze that tore into a thatched roof.

Firefighters were called out to the burning cottage in the hamlet of Leaveland, near Faversham, at 10.13am today (Sunday).

The crews arrived to find smoke coming out of the roof.

They used breathing apparatus to tackle the flames from the inside.

They created firebreaks to prevent the blaze spreading within the roof space.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service says that its crews also used fogspike equipment, which creates a fine water mist to suppress heat within the roof area.

The firefighters then assisted with salvage and helping make the building safe.

KFRS confirmed initial reports that a total six pumps were sent to the blaze.

These included a pump and a water carrier from the Ashford station.