Habitats known to house lizards, slow worms and snakes have been devastated by a fire.

The grass and scrub land caught alight off Milton Creek Country Park, near Sittingbourne, on Tuesday.

A Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said one fire engine was sent to the blaze at about 1.55pm.

Milton Creek Country Park ranger, Kris Staples, said the area that caught fire – known as Church Marshes between the creek and light railway – is owned by Kent County Council.

He said: "I wasn't at work but with the power of our Facebook page people got in contact with me through that which's brilliant.

"One of our regular dog walkers noticed the fire and reported it through 999.

"We don't know how it started.

"There are lots of habitats for reptiles, mammals and invertebrates where they nest and lay eggs.

"Fortunately we're past bird nesting season but there could've been young reptiles in the area. They are able to move fast though."

Mr Staples said the habitats will recover over time.

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