Four people and several of their pets escaped a house fire last night.

Two fire engines were called to a kitchen fire in a house in Lewis Close, Faversham at 10.15pm.

Crews found the property full of smoke, but a smoke alarm had alerted three adults and a child, allowing them time to escape.

Paramedics checked them for the effects of smoke inhalation, but no serious injuries were reported.

While using a hose to put the fire out - as well as a high pressure fan to clear the house of smoke - they managed to save most of the pets inside.

In all, they rescued two tortoises, a hamster, a guinea pig, a rabbit and a cat from the property.

The cat was unconscious and crews managed to revive it by providing oxygen through a special animal mask. But sadly two budgies died.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service's (KFRS) Volunteer Response Unit attended and worked with local vets and animal sanctuaries to find the pets somewhere safe to stay overnight.

The fire is believed to have started accidentally due to an electrical fault with a kitchen appliance.

KFRS's assistant director for customer safety, Colin King, said: "This incident shows how important it is to have working smoke alarms on each floor of your home - the occupants were able to get outside quickly.

"We also advise everyone to close internal doors before going to sleep, so fire and smoke can't spread so quickly - providing more protection for you, your family, your pets and your property."

Read more: All the latest news from Faversham