The victim of a fire on Christmas Eve has been named as Philip Williams.

The body of Mr Williams was found by firefighters in the remains of his home in Sandgate, Folkestone

Emergency services were called to the Sunnyside Road property to battle the blaze, which took hold just before 5pm.

Residents were advised to keep their doors and windows shut while crews in eight fire engines and a bulk water carrier fought back the flames.

An inquest into Mr Williams death heard that while fire crews were at the scene, they were approached by a friend of Mr Williams who was concerned he could be inside.

The friend informed police officers the pensioner was supposed to meet a group of friends at the pub that evening but had failed to appear.

At approximately 6.12pm, a number of explosions were heard, with the fire continuing to rage until past 10pm.

The following morning, Kent Fire and Rescue Services (KFRS) found the remains of the 73-year-old after damping down hotspots. This was confirmed publicly around a month later.

Katrina Hepburn, area coroner for central and south east Kent, said Mr Williams' cause of death had been given as smoke inhalation due to the fire.

She added that he had a background of ischemic heart disease which contributed to his tragic death.

The cause of the fire has still not been established, but is not believed to be suspicious.

The inquest was opened and adjourned today in Maidstone, to be heard at a later date.