Six fire crews were called to a flat fire in Harbour Parade, Ramsgate, this morning.

Firefighters received the call at 6.55am and are attending a fire on the second floor of a three storey building.

The fire broke out just as Ramsgate's Great British Seaside Festival was due to start.

Breathing apparatus and hose reel jets have been used to tackle the fire both internally and externally. Due to the height of the building a height vehicle is also being used.

A spokesman said there is steady progress and the fire is being brought under control.

The crews have now been reduced to four.

Garry Lovejoy, KFRS operational response and planning manager said, "The fire was in flats above a bar and the upper floors where the fire was located was under renovation.

"There was an intense blaze on the first and second floors. Ceilings and floors were partially collapsing and there was a potential for a flash over.

"We fought the fire from both inside the building, using breathing apparatus, and from the exterior, using water from nearby hydrants and also water pumped from the sea.

"The crews did a great job in what were very difficult circumstances. We were all very conscious that this was the day of the Ramsgate Harbour Parade, which is an important day for the town.

"We were keen to get the fire under control as quickly as possible to allow other local businesses back into their premises to open up, and I am glad to say we managed to do that by 10am."

All bank holiday events including the Summer Squall and Great British Seaside Festival will now continue as usual.