Around 30 passengers had to be evacuated after a fire broke out on a train this morning.

Firefighters were called to Paddock Wood railway station after a small fire in the front carriage of the 7.41am Paddock Wood to Strood service.

Electricity to the engine was stopped and the driver used a fire extinguisher to tackle the blaze.

Four fire engines, including a bulk water carrier, were sent to the station, in Station Approach, but the incident was scaled down.

Crews used a thermal imaging camera to check for fire spread and the source of ignition.

The fire was started caused by a defective heater which also caused the windscreen to crack.

Staff from Southeastern and Network Rail were also called to investigate.

A British Transport Police spokesman confirmed the fire wasn't thought to be suspicious.

Fire crews left the scene at 8.36am, but passengers are warned of disruption throughout the morning.

Southeastern said a replacement train would be arranged from Slade Green depot and services should be reinstated within the next hours.

A spokesman said: "The affected train has been taken out of service and is awaiting fitters."