Crews are tackling a blaze at a house that has forced several homes to be evacuated and a neighbouring road to be sealed off.

Six fire engines are at the scene in Barnfield, Greenhill.

Crews were called to the Herne Bay property just after 3.30pm.

A fire service spokesman said: "Crews are working hard to contain the fire which is believed to have started in a first-floor bedroom and has spread to the roof space."

A police spokesman added: "Kent Police is attending Barnfield in Herne Bay to assist Kent Fire and Rescue Service at the scene of a fire.

"Officers were called to the scene at 3.48pm. Matthews Road currently remains closed."

A neighbour said he noticed the house was on fire after he heard a series of loud bangs.

"Windows were bursting," he said. "It's hit two roofs. The roof of the house next door to it is gone.

"I was downstairs in my home and I asked my mate 'can you hear fireworks going off?' He said 'what, in daylight?'

"As I looked out I could see the fire, so I rang 999 and ran round the corner to the house. An ambulance and the fire brigade then turned up."

Witnesses said at least three houses were affected and one person was reportedly arrested at the scene.

Canterbury City Council spokesman Rob Davies said some of the homes that were affected by the blaze are owned by the local authority.

"We have provided emergency temporary accommodation for two families and are helping others who may require our support," he added.

"Council officers are at the scene working with the police and fire service.

"We believe we have spoken to anyone who may have been affected by this, but if there are any families involved who we have not yet made contact with, please call 01227 781879.

"Thank you to Herne and Broomfield Parish Council for setting up a rest centre."