A FIRE engine swerved off the road and smashed through two garden walls before coming to a halt.

The accident happened in Sheals Crescent, Maidstone when, it is understood, the vehicle swerved to avoid a lorry.

The crew had been returning to Maidstone Fire Station after answering an emergency call.

June Wilkins, a resident of one of the homes hit by the engine, said: "The first I heard of it was a scrunching noise. I looked outside and there was a fire-engine grinding to a halt.

"If it had been a minute or so later I would have leaving the house with my grandchildren. We were extremely lucky."

The incident happened at about 3.45pm on Christmas Eve.

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