Lizards being kept in a shed in Sittingbourne had a lucky escape after a heat lamp fell over and almost started a fire.

Two fire engines were sent to Swanstree Avenue just after midday today.

Watch manager Neil Ryder said: "A shed, which the gentleman was using to keep animals in, was smoking.

"A warming lamp had fallen down and charred a shelf. We went to make sure everything was safe. None of the animals had to be moved out."

Mr Ryder said the collection of pets numbered between 10 and 20 and included iguanas.

The firefighters, from Sittingbourne Fire Station, made sure the building was free of smoke and left after about 20 minutes.