A factory had to be evacuated after a fire broke out with around 30 workers being led to safety.

Firefighters went to the scene at Thermo Fisher Scientific, which makes DNA testing equipment, in Leacon Road, Ashford just afer 8.50pm Friday.

The blaze had broken out in a solvent cleaning unit.

The fire was confined to a stainless steel cupboard - but smoke had spread and the plant had to be extensively ventilated.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service says the fire stemmed from vapours from solvents but it is not known how it was ignited.

Nobody was injured and staff had to stay off the premises for an hour and 40 minutes.