by Graham Tutthill

gtutthill@thekmgroup.co.uk

Fire has ripped through a former care home near Dover.

Emergency services were called at 6.30pm when smoke and flames were seen coming from the first floor and roof of the derelict Kearsney House off Egerton Road, Temple Ewell.

Fire crews from several East Kent stations attended, police closed roads and a paramedic was standing by as it was understood that squatters had previously been seen in the building.

Flames shot up through the roof of the building and two fire service height vehicles were brought in to enable fire-fighters to pour water on to the property from above.

At one stage there were fears that the building could collapse.

Fire and police officers are investigating the cause of the blaze.