Fire crews have been called to deal with a few minor incidents as a four-day strike gets underway, but are urging people to consider holding bonfires once it has ended.

Firefighters were called to an accident on the M20 at just after 1am this morning, between Junctions 4 (Leybourne) and 5 (Aylesford) where the car was smoking.

They also gave a man and a woman first aid at the scene.

They also responded to a number of automatic fire alarms in Tonbridge, Maidstone and Larkfield this morning.

And they were called to some trees alight in Kings Hill last night.

The national Fire Brigades Union strike runs until 6pm on Tuesday, November 4.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to avoid lighting bonfires during the strike.

Director Steve Demetriou said: “During the strike we have less engines and crews than normal, and we need to ensure they are there for life threatening incidents. That’s why we are asking local people to wait to have their bonfires until after the strike ends."

Sean Bone-Knell, from the service, added: “Everyone needs to take responsibility to make sure that their property is safe so that we can ensure that crews are there for life risk incidents rather than out dealing with avoidable fires."