Residents and businesses were evacuated after a lorry carrying military explosives crashed outside a cafe.

The accident happened just before 2.20pm outside Oasis on the A259 Old Romney when the van went into the back of a stationary tipper truck.

Steve Hutchings, who runs the eatery, saw what happened and provided first aid to the driver who had to be freed from the debris by firefighters.

The man escaped with minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

Mr Hutchings said he, along with customers, staff and some nearby businesses and cottages were told to leave the area while the explosives were unloaded into two white vans.

The A259 was closed between Brenzett and Hammonds Corner.

The 57-year-old said: "There was a car turning to our car park in the middle of a road. A tipper truck tried to squeeze by but couldn't and the other lorry was behind that and just went into the back of it.

"We were evacuated at about 2.30pm. I don't know how long it will remain closed for."

A spokesman for KentPolice, said: "The road remains closed while work is ongoing to recover one of the vehicles, a military vehicle.

"Due to its cargo of munitions, the surrounding area was evacuated as a precaution for a short time although that has since been lifted, and the Ministry of Defence are attending the scene. There are no public safety concerns."

Delays were reported in the area until after 6pm.

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