Police have evacuated four streets as bomb disposal teams continue to inspect suspicious materials found at a flat.

Officers have closed off Charlotte Court in Ramsgate - where the discovery was made - as well as Harbour Street, York Street and Queen Street.

Ramsgate Leisure Centre has been set up as an emergency centre for residents who have been evacuated from their homes.

The centre is set to remain open until 1am to provide shelter and refreshments for residents evacuated from their homes but Thanet District Council says there will be support for those affected after the centre closes tonight.

Photos taken by witnesses around the cordon showed a bomb disposal robot being moved into position in Charlotte Court.

Police were called to the flat shortly before 3.30pm after the suspicious objects were discovered.

A Ministry of Defence Explosive Ordnance Disposal team was alerted and scrambled to the scene.

Police say a cordon set up around the streets is likely to remain in place until the early hours.

A police spokesman said: "Two streets in Ramsgate have been cordoned off as a precaution after a number of suspicious materials were found.

"Police were called at 3.26pm on Monday 14 January 2019 after the objects were found at a flat in Charlotte Court.

"Officers are at the scene and have evacuated Charlotte Court and closed Harbour Street and York Street.

"A Ministry of Defence Explosive Ordnance Disposal team has been called out to assess the items."

Inspector James Ross said: "We have closed the roads purely as a precaution and are asking people to avoid the area until we are satisfied that it is safe for them to return."

In a statement, Thanet council said it had been assisting Kent Police and residents.

A spokesman said: "TDC is working with Kent Police Thanet to assist displaced residents affected by the closure in Ramsgate. Households not able to stay with family and friends have been provided hotel accommodation.

"The centre is due to close at 1am. Emergency support can still be provided after that time, please call 01843 577000."

Have you been evacuated? Tell us about your experience of what has been happening tonight. Contact the newsdesk on thanetextra@thekmgroup.co.uk or message us on Facebook