At least six fire engines and dozens of firefighters tackled a huge blaze out at Elmley Nature Reserve this afternoon.

Big clouds of smoke could be seen across the Isle of Sheppey, as far as Minster, and the fire spread so far that crews used a drone to assess the area and check for hot spots.

Firefighters from across the area and from Rochester and Medway attended the scene, succeeding in damping down the flames by about 4.30pm.

VIDEO: Smoke is seen from across the Island. Credit: Mark Broad.

A spokesman for the fire service said six fire engines were sent to tackle the blaze.

Earlier he said: "Kent Fire and Rescue Service is responding to a fire at Elmley Nature Reserve on Sheppey, where a large area of undergrowth and vegetation is alight.

"People are advised to avoid the area and anyone living nearby is asked to keep their doors and windows closed as a precaution."

Witnesses spotted the smoke first at around 2pm.

Video credit: @keith68ginger

Witness Damon Webb, of nearby Iwade, said he had been watching the drama for about an hour.

He said: "I am not sure how it started but I really hope all the animals, especially the birds, are OK."

Elmley National Nature Reserve is a family-run farm popular with visitors.

It is known as one of the best places for wildlife conservation in the UK, and is home to a large variety of birds, insects, hares, watervoles, seals, lizards and frogs.

The reserve also features meadows, waterways, rare grasses and wildflowers, as well as lesser-seen bee species.

Elmley Nature Reserve tweeted to confirm no-one was hurt: "Thank you everyone for your concern. It looks much worse than it is, we're all fine!"