A huge plume of smoke could be seen for miles after a fire broke out on an industrial estate.

Around 25 firefighters tackled the flames at a unit at New Hythe Business Park in Larkfield.

A large amount of waste metal caught alight just after 6.30pm.

Fire crews wearing breathing apparatus used compressed air foam to tackle the flames.

Four fire engines, a bulk water carrier and height vehicle were at the scene.

Residents were asked to keep doors and windows closed as a precaution due to black smoke in the area, but firefighters said this was no longer necessary just after 8pm.

Crews remained at the scene overnight with the last engine leaving the incident at around 5am on Saturday morning.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "Firefighters remained at the scene of a fire involving a large quantity of waste and plant machinery in New Hythe Lane, Larkfield overnight.

"At the height of the fire, around 25 firefighters, four fire engines, a height vehicle and bulk water carrier were dealing with the blaze.

"However, crews worked hard to bring the fire under control and were able to scale down to two fire engines and a bulk water carrier just after 10.30pm.

"They continued to make steady progress with the use of onsite mechanical diggers and two main jets.

"The incident was then reduced to one fire engine, which remained at the scene, keeping a watching brief until shortly after 5am."