Two people have been airlifted to hospital following a crash late last night.

The A228 Maidstone Road was closed for around nine hours in both directions between Pembury and Paddock Wood following the smash at 11.16pm.

A green Toyota Avensis and a green Fiat 500 were involved in the collision between Crittenden Road at Colts Hill and the B2017 at Five Oak Green - with the Toyota catching fire.

The two occupants of the Fiat were lifted by air ambulance to a London hospital for treatment to injuries described as serious, while the Toyota driver was taken to a local hospital for medical attention.

A Kent Police spokesperson said: "Officers were called to the scene on the A228 near Colts Hill, Five Oak Green and the road was closed for recovery and investigation.

"Kent Fire and Rescue was called to assist due to a fire in one of the vehicles.

"A man was taken to a local hospital, while a woman and a second man were airlifted to a London hospital.

"The road closure is now being managed by Highways officers due to carriageway repairs."

A Kent Fire and Rescue spokesperson added: "Two people were trapped in one vehicle with a second vehicle on fire.

"Crews used breathing apparatus and a hose reel jet and main jet to put out the fire.

"Firefighters released the two people trapped and released them into the care of ambulance."

Officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit are investigating the incident and are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen the cars before or at the time of the collision, or who have dashcam footage to get in contact.

Witnesses can call the appeal line on 01622 798538 quoting DK/LB/144/18.

Alternatively they can email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk.