A popular chippy had to be evacuated after a fire broke out on the busiest night of the week.

A fryer caught light at Shakey Shakey in Ramsgate High Street at about 6.30pm resulting in thick black smoke billowing into the shop and out into the street.

Customers waiting for their Friday night fish supper were asked to leave the shop but a spokesman for the company, which also sells vegan food, said they were all very understanding.

The woman who works there, and asked not to be named, confirmed one of the fryers caught light.

She said: "There was a lot of smoke, more smoke than fire.

"This is our busiest time and it was really packed in here, there were a lot of customers waiting for their food. We told everyone they had to exit the shop.

"We called the fire brigade and they were amazing. They came really quickly.

"All the customers were lovely and very supportive, so were the businesses nearby, everyone was great.

"Everyone is safe and sound and there was no permanent damage. We are open again now, it wasn't anything major."

It is believed two fire engines went to the fish and chip bar and crews wore breathing apparatus to enter the shop and put out the flames.

As well as traditional fish and chips, Shakey Shakey has a full vegan menu featuring "tofish" made from tofu, beefless burgers and chickenless nuggets.

The company also sells gluten-free food.