by Graham Tutthill

A family has had to be re-housed after fire damaged three properties in Folkestone Road, Dover on Saturday.

The blaze was in a second-floor flat next to their home, but flames and smoke spread to adjacent houses causing extensive damage.

An investigation has now revealed that the fire started accidentally.

Fire fighters from all over East Kent tackled the blaze which broke out just after 11am.

Ambulance paramedics and police were also called to the scene following reports that people might be trapped in the blazing building.

Searches have been carried out to ensure that no-one was still inside.

A family living next door saw smoke coming from the back of the house and made their way out of their home. They were cared for by staff at Dover Priory railway station opposite the scene.

Part of the house has been gutted by the fire.

The road was closed to traffic and motorists faced long diversions.