A FAMILY of four made a lucky escape when a fire completely destroyed their house.

A couple and their two young children fled the burning home in The Tideway, Rochester, shortly before fire crews arrived at about 7.45am on Sunday.

Officers believe the fire was caused by an electrical fault. Fire crews tackled the blaze for about two hours, but the home was totally destroyed.

Help for the family was at hand from the British Red Cross who arrived almost immediately to offer shelter and support for the stricken family.

None of the family members was hurt or injured but an elderly neighbour had to be treated at the scene by paramedics for smoke inhalation.