A video shows the shocking moment a burning car explodes in a residential road.

The drama was captured on camera last night (March 6) in Chestfield Close, Rainham.

A witness, who does not want to be named, says they saw the flames at around midnight.

They claim a man in a black vehicle set fire to three cars in the cul-de-sac.

“I heard glass breaking – I think that was the windows being done in,” they said.

“I then saw someone running and jumping into a car, then driving off.

“I was shocked. It’s a pretty quiet street and we’ve got a primary school nearby. It’s not what you'd expect.”

They added: “I think the whole street woke up to it and everyone probably phoned the emergency services straight away.

“It was called in and two fire engines were here quite quickly. Police followed shortly after.”

Firefighters took around 10 to 15 minutes to extinguish the blaze.

Since then, it is understood officers have been making inquiries and reassuring residents in the close.

The fire service and police have been contacted for more information.