A LORRY load of carpet backing caught fire on one of Kent's main roads.

Fire crews from Whitstable were called to the blazing vehicle on the Thanet Way near Brenley Corner at Faversham at about 5.30am on Monday.

The driver had unhooked the cab from the load and was not hurt but several tonnes of his cargo went up in flames.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fire and the road was closed for a short time to ensure their safety. They returned to the station at 8.30am.