Firefighters were called after a chimney caught fire in a house this afternoon.

Crews were called to the blaze in Badlesmere near Faversham shortly after 4.30pm.

It has prompted the fire service to issue advice to homeowners about how to prevent chimney fires.

One fire engine was sent to the incident which is believed to have been caused by a large build-up of soot in the chimney.

Firefighters used specialist equipment to extinguish the fire after racing to the scene.

Faversham crew manager Dan Wooller said: "As the cold weather continues, many residents are using open fires and wood burning stoves to heat their homes.

"Please make sure you get your chimney regularly swept, inspected and well maintained by a professional chimney sweep."

He said this would help to reduce the risk of a fire breaking out due to soot or ash building up in the chimney, heat spread from damaged chimney breasts or badly fitted wood burning stoves.

Mr Wooller added: "I’d also recommend that residents sign up to our clean sweep alert, to receive a free reminder to have your chimney swept."

For more safety advice visit www.kent.fire-uk.org/news/campaigns/clean-sweep-alert or call 0800 923 7000 or email home@kent.fire-uk.org