Firefighters were called to a blaze in a derelict building in Darnley Road, Strood yesterday afternoon.

Crews were called at 3.24pm to reports of a building alight. Four fire engines from Strood and Medway stations were sent.

A Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Approximately 20 firefighters were at the scene of a fire in a disused building in Darnley Road, Strood.

"Crews wearing breathing apparatus are using hose reels and compressed air foam to tackle the blaze."

The road was closed in both directions and people were warned to stay away from the area because of traffic congestion.

No one was thought to be hurt or trapped.

By 5pm, the fire had been contained to one building and duty of care was handed to a building control officer.

It is not yet known how the fire started.