A barn which is used for workshops and storage of plant and machinery has been severely damaged by fire, near Sandwich.

Six fire crews were called to Green Lane Farm, at Marshborough Road, Marshborough, at 4.30am Saturday when flames were seen coming from the single-storey portal framed barn.

Police closed Marshborough Road to traffic while the firefighting operations continued.

There was an added safety concern when it was reported that the roof of the building might contain asbestos.

People living nearby were advised to stay indoors with their windows and doors closed, but safety experts later confirmed there was no danger.

Owner Richard Ovenden was among those watching as fire crews tackled the blaze, which destroyed more than half of the building.