A FAMILY were forced to flee to their car after lightning struck their house.

Ten firefighters from Dartford and Swanley were called to the family home in Manse Way, Swanley, this morning at around 2.30am. (May 28)

The lightning fused the electrics on the ground floor of the house and singed electrical sockets in the living room, according to Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

Firefighters checked the house and called the electricity supplier.

The family, who were not hurt, were able to return after half an hour.