A cottage in Bethersden has been badly damaged by fire.

Fire crews were called to the two-storey property in Brissenden Green Lane just before 2.30pm yesterday (Thursday) afternoon.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) said that when firefighters arrived they found smoke billowing from the cottage's roof.

Firefighters used breathing apparatus, a main jet, two hose reel jets and a thermal imaging camera to tackle the blaze which is believed to have started in the flue of a log burner.

The fire had spread to the first floor bedroom and roof space.

KFRS says the property was seriously damaged by the fire and also suffered smoke damage.