A pensioner had to be rescued by firefighters after his boiled eggs set off a fire alarm.

Two fire engines from Ashford and Charing were called to sheltered housing at Pett Lane, Charing at half past midnight last night.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered and found an apartment filled with smoke and an 'unpleasant smell' after eggs left in a pan had boiled dry and started smoking.

Crews discovered a man, aged in his 60s, in his room and led him to safety.

He was given first aid and oxygen before being taken to the William Harvey Hospital for smoke inhalation.