A pub fire is believed to have been started by occupants inside the building sparking a huge emergency service response.

The blaze at the former King Edward VII in Dane Valley Road, Margate, started shortly after midnight.

Dramatic images shared on social media show the inside of the pub engulfed in flames as firefighters were called at 12.28am.

The pub is now completely gutted with windows blown out and smoke damage visible this morning.

A fire service spokesperson said four fire engines were in attended with the flames extinguished using buckets.

Two people were taken to hospital for “precautionary checks”.

The spokesperson added: “It is believed the fire was started by occupants of the building and is not believed to be suspicious.”

Fire crews left the scene at 12.42am.

The King Edward VII shut in 2014 and has become an eyesore since, though plans to convert it into flats were submitted last year.

A decision on the proposal has not yet been made by Thanet District Council.

The pub gained its first drinks licence in 1912 and took over from a local shop.

It was initially tied to the Thompson Brewery of Walmer before being taken over by Shepherd Neame of Faversham.