Firefighters who tackled blaze that spread across 5,000 square metres of scrubland in East Malling say they believe it started by accident.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called to Sweets Lane just after 3pm yesterday afternoon.

At its height, six fire engines attended with the Technical Rescue Unit, a bulk water carrier and additional support vehicles.

Crews used beaters, hose reel jets and light portable pumps to tackle the flames which were put out just after 8pm.

There were no reported casualties.

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