At least two large explosions "lit up the sky" in Gravesend overnight after a garage full of gas canisters caught fire.

Brave firefighters removed about 40 canisters from the burning building and there are not thought to be any more inside.

Emergency services were called at about 11.15pm after explosions were reported in Rembrandt Drive.

VIDEO: Huge explosion caught on camera by nearby resident

Firefighters remained at the scene until 7.30 this morning.

Witnesses reported hearing several large bangs and seeing flames leaping into the sky.

Fire crews at the scene used "defensive" tactics to control the blaze.

A spokesman said: "Kent Fire and Rescue Service received a number of calls to reports of a fire in a garage in Rembrandt Drive, Northfleet at 11.14pm.

"Two fire engines were initially sent to the property, arriving within minutes of receiving the 999 call.

"Firefighters attacked the fire, which involved a number of cylinders, using one main jet, one hose reel and compressed air foam. A thermal imaging camera was also used.

"Crews have remained at the scene throughout the night once the fire was extinguished to allow the cylinders to vent, after being cooled. Firefighters left the scene shortly after 7.30am when duty of care was left with the local authority."

A video posted on twitter shows several large explosions.

The cause of the fire is not yet known although social media reports suggest this is the second garage fire in the area in the last few weeks.