Forty firefighters battled a huge crop blaze - which spread across almost 20 acres of land.

Eight fire engines were called to the scene of the incident in fields on Lenham Heath between Maidstone and Ashford just before 3.15pm.

Crews fought to extinguish the flames for more than 90 minutes, as they also escorted people close by to safety.

A fire service spokesman said: "We were sent to reports of a standing crop fire in fields on Lenham Heath.

"Crews worked hard to get the fire under control which covered approximately eight hectares, the equivalent of almost 20 acres.

"The blaze has been brought under control and put out.

"Firefighters escorted persons who were in the vicinity to safety."

Witness Kiran Reardon, who saw the flames from the skies, praised the emergency services for preventing the blaze from spreading to buildings.

Smoke was said to be visible to motorists on the M20 between Junctions 8 for Leeds Castle and 9 near Ashford.

Officials have confirmed no injuries have been reported.