A woman in her 60s died in a fire at a flat in a sheltered home in Gravesend, police have confirmed.

Ambulance, police and fire crews attended the incident which started at about 2.45pm at Watling Court, Ifield Way yesterday.

Thames-side crew said they received a report that someone was trapped in the property. They remained on the scene until 5.02pm.

The woman has not yet been named by the police, but a statement issued today said: “Next of kin have been informed and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

“There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”

Watling Court has 56 flats spread over three floors. It is run by The Abbeyfield Kent Society and is an extra care scheme, which combines independent living with 24 hour support.

Residents are encouraged to be independent in their own homes but have use of communal areas to socialise.