Six fire engines were called after a fire broke out in a town centre block of flats.

Crews tackled the blaze on a balcony at Midhurst Court in Mote Road, Maidstone, from around 3pm.

Flames appeared to be coming from a flat on the fifth floor of the tower block, which is owned by Golding Homes housing association.

A height vehicle was at the scene, and police and paramedics were also in attendance.

Residents were evacuated from the building, and the blaze was put out by 5pm.

Many have now returned to their homes.

A Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “People living near Mote Road in Maidstone, are no longer advised to keep windows and doors closed, following a fire on a balcony in a flat.

“Crews wearing breathing apparatus used a main jet to extinguish the fire, and searches were carried out throughout other floors to make sure everywhere was safe.

“All other residents are being returned to their flats with the support of Kent Police and Golding Homes.

“KFRS’ volunteer response team also attended to support impacted residents.

“There were no reported injuries, and the cause is not yet known.”

Rachel McFarlane, customer experience director at Golding Homes, added: “We’re aware of a fire at Midhurst Court this afternoon.

“KFRS have attended, all residents are safe and most are now returning to their homes.

“Golding colleagues are on site supporting and reassuring customers. The fire is believed to be contained to one flat.”

A police spokesperson said: “This fire was reported to us at 3.30pm and our officers attended to assist with a road closure.”