A woman was pronounced dead at the scene of a fire which ripped through a three-storey house.

Five fire engines were sent to the scene of the blaze in Rectory Road, Broadstairs, at just after 6.30pm yesterday.

Police confirmed this morning that a woman had died.

Fire crews used breathing apparatus, hose reel and main jets to bring the flames under control and prevent the blaze from spreading to neighbouring properties.

Police closed the road while emergency services dealt with the incident.

The woman's next of kin have been informed and a report is being prepared for the coroner.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.