THE body of a woman was discovered by firefighters who tackled a blaze in a row of cottages in a Kent village.

An investigation has been launched into the cause of the blaze in Breach Lane at Lower Halstow, between Sittingbourne and Gillingham.

The Kent Fire and Rescue Service were called to the blaze late last night. The crew of one engine was still at the scene damping down early today.

The identity of the victim has not yet been revealed. A fire service spokeswoman said the cause of the tragedy was as yet unknown.

She added: "Members of our fire investigation team were at the scene last night and returned today as soon as it was daylight."