Child dies, child and adult in hospital after fire

One child has died while a second child and an adult have been taken to hospital after a fire at a house in Kent.

Three firefighters also suffered minor injuries in the "intense" fire on White Admiral Way, Hamstreet, near Ashford, Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) said.

The blaze started just after 12:00 GMT and at its height six fire engines worked to extinguish the flames, which had spread throughout the semi-detached property. An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

Ann Millington, KFRS chief executive, said: "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with everyone affected by this tragic incident, especially the child's loved ones."

The fire service was joined by crews from Kent Police, South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) and Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex in responding to the blaze.

A Secamb spokesperson said: "Sadly, despite the efforts of everyone involved, one child died at the scene. Another child and an adult were taken to hospital.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with all those affected."

KFRS has since scaled down its response but remained at the scene on Sunday evening damping down hot-spots.

A volunteer response team has also been offering crew welfare and support.

In an update at 21:00, it said three firefighters had suffered minor injuries and had been to hospital but had since been released.

Ms Millington said a welfare hub had been set up at Hamstreet Village Hall where support was available for the local community.

"We understand this will be a distressing time," she said.

Kent Police said its officers attended and assisted with the closure of the road while firefighters extinguished the blaze.

Earlier, firefighters had urged people living nearby or travelling through the area to close windows and doors due to the smoke, but this advice has since been lifted.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.