The cause of a fire which broke out at a house in Northfleet early this morning is currently under investigation.

Firefighters from Thames-side fire station were called out to Painters Ash Lane, at about 5.40am and had to use breathing apparatus to enter the property and put out the flames.

Three pumps were sent to the scene to scene and spent about a hour making sure the flames were out.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said no one was inside the property at the time.

The flames were out by 6.52am, but it is not known at this stage how much damage was caused to the property.

The spokesman added that the cause of the fire was thought to be suspicious and police had been alerted and had begun an investigation.