by Chris Hunter

Ulcombe's 16th Century Pepperbox Inn has been severely damaged by fire.

Firefighters were called to reports of a blaze at the rural pub in Windmill Hill, south east of Maidstone, shortly after 5.30pm last night.

Despite their efforts to quench the fire, a section of the historic building's roof was left severely damaged, while half of the ground floor kitchen was damaged.

No one is thought to have been injured in the incident.

Four pumps, from Lenham, Charing and Maidstone attended, supported by a height vehicle from Medway.

The fire was reported as out at 6.37pm and firefighters left the scene an hour later.

A crew from Lenham were later called back, at 11.47pm, as a small timber joist had reignited.

They left the scene just after 12.30am this morning.