A man has been charged after reportedly threatening to torch a block of flats – prompting dozens of residents to flee and a road to close.

Emergency services were alerted to 16 flats, in Cliftonville, Margate, following a disturbance, resulting in a six-hour evacuation.

Tony Gannon was arrested and has since been charged with communicating a bomb hoax at the Sweyn Road flats.

It is understood residents in 16 homes were not allowed to return for more than six hours.

A police spokesperson said: “Kent Police was called to a property in Sweyn Road around 9am on Wednesday following a report of a man making threats to cause damage to the property.

“Officers attended and were assisted by Kent Fire and Rescue Service. A man was later arrested at the scene.

“A cordon was established and 16 households were evacuated as a precaution during the incident.

“They were later able to return home and the cordon was lifted.”

At about 9am yesterday morning three police cars and two fire engines were seen parked outside the flats.

Speaking at the time, a fire service spokesperson said: “Kent Fire and Rescue Service has been called to assist Kent Police at a block of flats in Sweyn Road. Two fire engines have been sent to the scene.”

A police spokesperson added: “Officers along with other emergency services have been in attendance following threats made by a person inside the property.

“A cordon has been set up as a precaution while officers deal with the incident.”

Gannon, of Sweyn Road, is due to appear at Folkestone Magistrates' Court tomorrow (Friday, July 21).