A LARGE crane smashed through the roof of a luxury home being built in a Kent town.

The accident happened around 8.30am on Friday in Kingsgate Avenue, Kingsgate, Broadstairs when the machine's cab toppled sideways and the 50ft boom arm ploughed down through the house from back to front.

The arm stretched out across the grass verge and towered over the road.

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More than 20 firefighters from Thanet and the surrounding area attended at the scene, together with police, paramedics and an ambulance.

Patricia Dunne who lives nearby said: "We saw the container swinging around in the air. My husband, who's worked in construction, said he believed the crane had gone too far over.

"It started to fall back, there was an almighty crash, and the crane went straight through the building.

"We were thinking whatever happens if it comes off? Living right next to it it was very scary. Luckily no-one was injured but the crane driver is rather shaken up. I made him a coffee.

"I've never seen so many police and fire engines in my life."

Cllr Bob Bayford, ward councillor for Kingsgate, was at the scene as the drama unfolded.

He said: "This has come as a complete shock to everyone. I've already spoken to the council's building control department and they will be coming down to assess the situation.

"Obviously there are health and safety implications and the council will need to see if there are any lessons that can be learned from this."

The incident is now being dealt with by the Health and Safety Executive.

Another crane has been brought into lift the damaged equipment out of the way.