An investigation is underway after at least seven people fled their homes as a fire that started in a garden shed spread to their houses.

The blaze broke out just after 4am in St Mary's Road, Tonbridge.

Fire crews arrived to find two three-storey buildings well alight.

A woman, two men and a child were outside the property and were treated for smoke inhalation.

Overall, seven people were treated, four were taken to hospital by ambulance as a precaution while three were told to visit the hospital by themselves.

No-one had life threatening injuries.

Shaun Easton, 52, saw firefighters tending to the fire. He said: "I was coming home from work and I saw the flashing lights and you just think at this time of year I hope everybody got out safe. You can rebuild houses but not lives."

At the height of the blaze, six fire engines were at the scene. By 5am, that had been reduced to two.

It is thought to have started in a garden shed before spreading to a kitchen, then the upper floors and roof.

Tiles had to be removed to help bring the fire under control.

A fire service spokesman said: "Both properties suffered severe fire damage to the rear and roof, both also suffered extensive smoke damage throughout."

The homes have been cordoned off and an investigation into the cause is underway, with both police forensic officers and fire service investigators involved.

A police spokesperson said: "Kent Police received a report that a property in St Mary’s Road, Tonbridge, was on fire."

"Officers attended the location to provide assistance to crews from Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

"The cause of the fire is currently unexplained and officers are conducting ongoing inquiries."