by Martin Jefferies

Part of a luxury new housing estate in Thanet was destroyed by a major fire overnight.

Around 20 firefighters were called to the blaze at Heronsbrook - a large development of two, three and four bedroom homes on Monkton Road, Minster - at around 9pm.

A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) said up to four properties, all of which were under construction, were affected.

Kent Police is now investigating the cause.

Two crews from Ramsgate and one each from Margate, Thanet (Westwood) and Canterbury were sent to the scene. Firefighters continued to damp down until 7.30am this morning.

Homes at Heronsbrook, a Persimmon Homes development, are currently on the market for up to £249,500.

Many are wooden-framed buildings, which the KFRS spokesperson said made tackling the fire especially difficult.