Pictures show the extent of the damage caused by a devastating fire at one of Kent's oldest pubs.

Flames ripped through the 11th century Dirty Habit pub in Upper Street, Hollingbourne last night. Residents were evacuated from nearby homes.

At the height of the blaze, 12 fire engines were at the scene. Crews remain at the site this morning.

The Dirty Habit sits on the Pilgrims Way and dates back to the 11th century. It was used as an inn by monks on their way to Canterbury. It is now run by pub chain Elite.

Devastated customers took to KentOnline's Facebook page to tell of their shock.

Lisa Margaret Birch posted: "That’s the pub we went to the night Graham Birch asked me to marry him! So sad to see such a piece of history destroyed!"

Gillian Smith added: "Always been one of my favourite places, so sad to read this."

Jackie Hadaway said: "It's badly damaged and still burning all the staff are safe. No one has been hurt. Such a shame as it's a historical building."

There were no reported injuries in the blaze but surrounding roads remain closed.

Staff at the pub had been preparing for a busy festive season; the fire broke out on the same day the Dirty Habit unveiled its new winter menu.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue said: "Six fire engines, a height vehicle, bulk water carrier, technical rescue team, command support unit, and KFRS’ volunteer response team remain in attendance this morning.

"There are no reported injuries. The surrounding roads are expected to be closed for several hours while the fire service works at the scene – please avoid Upper Street, Pilgrims Way and Hollingbourne Hill."

On the same night, a fire caused extensive damage to the Chilton Tavern pub in Ramsgate.