An investigation has been launched after a fire broke out in a flat in Dover town centre.

Firefighters are tackling the blaze in the bedroom of a flat on London Road at the corner of Churchill Street which started shortly before 3pm.

A crowd of residents has gathered nearby as the fire was tackled along a parade of shops.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "We were called to a bedroom fire above a shop on London Road, Dover.

"The fire investigation team will be investigating to find the cause."

Three fire engines from Dover and Deal were sent to the blaze with crews wearing breathing apparatus and using hose reel jets to battle the flames.

Police closed the road in the town centre at the junction with Tower Hamlets Road.

A spokesman for Kent Police could not confirm how long the road is likely to be closed for.