FRIARS were evacuated from their monastery after a severe fire engulfed an upstairs bedroom in the Friary and threatened to tear through the ancient building.

Five of the 11 Friars living in the Capuchin Franciscan Friary, in Carlton Road, Northumberland Heath, near Bexleyheath, had to be evacuated from the burning building.

Pastor Brother James said: "One of the Friars discovered the fire in one of the bedrooms upstairs. We are not sure how it started yet. We are waiting for the report from the fire investigation officers."

Four fire crews from Erith, Bexley and Plumstead battled for four hours to bring Saturday's blaze under control and struggled to save the roof.

Sub Officer Jim Kirby said: "When we arrived we could see flames coming out of the windows and the roof. It looked like quite an advanced fire. It was in fact isolated to the one room but was beginning to spread through the roof.

"Our crews did really well to knock the fire down and save the roof. There could have been much more damage."

Brother James added: "Luckily no-one was injured, which is of course the main thing, but it was quite upsetting for everyone.

"There is quite extensive damage to the second floor of the building. It is upsetting for everyone because this is our home."