A busy road has been shut following a gas main fire.

Engineers are carrying out repair works today to Maidstone Road in Sutton Valence following the blaze.

A fire at a gas main in Sutton Valence has caused traffic problems this morning

The fire happened between the junctions with Leeds Road and Chartway Street.

One engine and four firefighters could be seen at the scene of the incident this morning and SGN is carrying out the repair work - with Kent Highways warning the road likely to remain closed until Monday.

The road is shut between Warmlake Road and Plough Wents Road, and people are advised to avoid the area.

A member of the public called 999 after spotting the blaze.

Kent Highways says there is a diversion in place via Plough Wants Road, Heath Road, Linton cross roads, Linton Hill, Staplehurst Road, Maidstone Road, Station Road, High Street, Cranbrook Road, Camden Hill Common Road, Sissinghurst Road, Headcorn Road, Maidstone Road.

Waseem Hanif, a spokesperson for SGN, said: "We were called at around 11pm last night to support the emergency services with a reported damaged gas main in Maidstone Road, Sutton Valence, in our capacity as the gas emergency service in the area.

"Maidstone Road is closed between Warmlake Crossroads and Langley for everyone's safety as we work to make safe and isolate the gas escape.

"The cause of the damage to our network is still under investigation.

"It's still too early to say how long it will take before we can reopen the road, however the road is likely to remain closed throughout today and into the weekend.

"We would like to thank Sutton Valence residents and motorists for your patience and support and are working to reopen the road as soon as we can."

A spokesperson for the fire service said crews were called to the scene shortly before 11pm yesterday.

"One fire engine is in attendance and firefighters are on standby as a precaution," they said.

A staff member from Sutton Valence care home, which is next to the scene, said: "It was a nightmare getting in this morning. Especially for a care home when people are an hour late because of the traffic and others are trying to finish a 12 hour shift.

"It's right outside our front gate, so people have had to take a detour round the country to get into us."

The Headcorn Aeredrome is hosting events today and over the weekend, and despite concerns visitors may be affected, staff have said there's been no problems this morning.

One man said: "We've had people coming in this morning and it's been completely fine. We don't think there will be any problems."