A HOUSE was completely destroyed by fire after an explosion on Friday.

Neighbours were evacuated when the two-storey terraced home in Springwood Drive, near Godinton Park, Ashford, exploded.

Two fire engines from Ashford and one from Charing were called at 6.30pm and were at the scene until 1am.

The four male residents, who work at nearby Jasmine Chinese Takeaway were at work when the fire started. A neighbour returning home alerted the emergency services.

Sub-officer Colin King said: "We managed to prevent the fire spreading to the neighbouring properties, and everyone was evacuated.

"Unfortunately there were no smoke detectors, so it was too late to save the house. I would like to urge everyone to have them fitted."