Homes were evacuated and a road closed after a blaze broke out near a town centre.

Fire crews, police and paramedics were called to Hardinge Road, at the junction with A28 Canterbury Road, in Ashford at 4pm.

Pictures showed three fire engines in the street, which was cordoned off.

Crews wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the flames at a flat, opposite the Bakers Court development.

One person was treated at the scene for suspected minor smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported.

Residents have since been able to return to their homes.

The cause is not yet known and crews were stood down at 6.15pm.