Firefighters tackled a blaze the size of two football pitches on Dartford Heath this afternoon.

Two hectares of undergrowth and woodland caught alight at about 2pm.

Crews doused the fire, which they reached using an all-terrain vehicle.

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They used 'beaters' to fight the flames, as well as water.

A Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Crews are tackling a large undergrowth and woodland fire on Dartford Heath measuring around two hectares, or the equivalent of the size of two football pitches.

"Crews are using an all-terrain vehicle to assist with getting around the heath to tackle the fire and firefighters are using flexi-packs and beaters."

They left the scene at around 4.30pm.

Firefighters have now renewed their appeal to the public to avoid starting camp fires and bonfires in woodland and to take care when disposing of cigarette ends.

Anyone who spots a fire in the countryside is urged to report it as soon as possible, giving detail about the location, so it can be dealt with before it spreads.

Anyone with information about illegal fire setting activities is urged to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.