Three fire engines and two ambulances rushed to Crundall's Wharf at Queenborough Harbour on the Isle of Sheppey after receiving reports of a blazing barge with two crew on board.

Emergency services set up a base at the top of the harbour's all-tide landing stage as the boat was brought alongside.

Witnesses said they could see two fire engines, two ambulances, a fire and rescue incident car and a search and rescue vehicle from the Coastguard.

The Sheerness all-weather lifeboat Judith Copping Joyce was launched and could also be seen towing the barge to the landing stage.

A spokeswoman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said they were called at 1.30pm but the blaze was already out.

She said: "Three fire engines attended as well as the water safety unit. However, the fire was out on arrival."

She confirmed HM Coastguard, Kent Police and SECAmb were also present.

Two crew men were taken off the barge and one was given precautionary checks at the scene after suffering from suspected smoke inhalation.

It is believed the fire began accidentally. Crews had the incident under control by 3pm.

RNLI spokesman Vic Booth confirmed later there had been a "small barge-type vessel" with an engine fire.

He said: "The police rib Invicta was already out and got a tow near Queenborough Spit. Our all-weather lifeboat took over the tow and asked the fire service to attend.

"The barge, with two crew on board, was towed to the all-tide landing stage where it still showed signs of being alight. It was secured and a hose from the floating pontoon was used to cool the burning timber and deck.

"Kent Fire and Rescue arrived and took over fire duties and requested an ambulance to check one of the casualties who appeared to have suffered smoke inhalation."

He added: "Further information received some hours later reported that the problem seemed to have started with a faulty light fitting onboard the craft and that both the crew members were both now in good health and sent their thanks to all involved for their help in preventing the incident from becoming more serious."