STAFF had to climb out from an upper floor to escape a fire in a 15thC pub.

A smoke alarm woke up members of staff living in the Oak & Ivy pub, in Rye Road, Hawkhurst, just before 3am on Monday morning, July 9.

Two men and a woman climbed out on to a flat roof, where they waited to be rescued by fire crews.

Three fire appliances attended, from Cranbrook, Tenterden and Maidstone, and no one was injured.

Quick action meant the fire, which started in a tumble dryer, was restricted to the kitchen, which suffered severe damage.

The rest of the building sustained slight smoke damage, although firefighters also removed a section of the tiled roof to check for hotspots.

Crew Manager Colin Gambrell said a fast response prevented the pub being destroyed, adding: "The smoke alarm sounding may also have saved the lives of these occupants, by giving them early warning and allowing them time to escape uninjured."

Were you one of those rescued? Did you witness the fire? Call the Kent Messenger on 01622 695666