by Mary Graham

Fire has caused substantial damage after breaking out at a flat on Christmas Eve.

The blaze took hold at 7.30am in a flat at Old School Place, off Union Street, Maidstone.

The female occupant got out after smoke alarms sounded, but was treated by ambulance crews for smoke inhalation and shock. Other residents were evacuated from the block.

One neighbour, who lives in the flat directly above where the fire took hold, said: "I pulled back the curtains this morning and could see the flames and smoke billowing out. I think a passer-by saw it and dialled 999."

Fire crews also thanked nearby resident Dr Ali Sever, a radiologist with the Breast Care team at Maidstone Hospital, who made himself known to fire crews as a doctor who could help out if needed.

Two crews from Maidstone were sent to the scene. The fire was tackled from outside with water and a hose, and crews wearing breathing apparatus went into the property.

Crews described it as a small fire, but one which had caused a lot of damage to the bedroom, and said it was thanks to working smoke alarms that everyone was able to get out safely.

It is not yet known what caused the fire.