PART of a two-storey workshop collapsed when a fire ripped through it last night.

At least 50 per cent of the building, in Byron Road, Gillingham, burned down during the blaze.

Firefighters from Medway, Chatham and Gillingham, spent more than two hours battling the flames, which started just before 10pm.

Crews called in building inspectors after the collapse as it was deemed to be unsafe and the road was then cordoned off by police.

The street was still closed this morning as parents began taking their children to nearby schools in the area for the first day of the new term.

The nearest school to the fire is Bryon primary, which Medway Council confirmed would still be open today.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "The building inspectors were called out as the building was deemed unsafe. Firefighters had put the fire out by 12.15am and our fire investigators were on the scene."

It is believed the workshop, owned by a building firm, may have to be demolished.

A spokesman for Medway Police added: "The road has been closed since the incident, but officers are hoping to re-open it at about 9am."