Justin Kemp hit a century as Kent at last enjoyed a rain-free day to declare on 350-8 against Sussex at Canterbury.

The South African all-rounder hit 102 from 156 balls and shared a 167-run partnership with James Tredwell (68) for the fifth wicket on day three.

Kenyan paceman Ragheb Aga was the pick of the Sussex bowlers, claiming career-best bowling figures of 4-63.

Sussex finished on 57-1 in their first innings, trailing by 293 runs in a match destined for a draw.

Incessant rain had accounted for the first two days as Kent began the morning on 50-1.

They lost captain Rob Key (30) and Martin van Jaarsveld (0) followed three balls later as Aga picked up his first two wickets of the day.

The Kenyan then collected his third wicket in seven balls when he had Darren Stevens caught at first slip, leaving the hosts teetering at 76-4.

But Kemp and Tredwell soon steadied the innings with their partnership, with Kemp taking 16 runs off one Luke Wright over.

Tredwell took 119 balls for his second Championship 50 of the season before he was adjudged lbw to Corey Collymore.

Despite losing his partner, Kemp continued his aggressive knock, bringing up his fifth century for Kent with three boundaries.

He was dismissed soon after when he edged Aga to wicket-keeper Matt Prior, but Geraint Jones (30) kept the scoreboard ticking over.

Kent eventually declared once they secured four batting points and seamer Ryan McLaren made an early breakthrough when he dismissed Chris Nash (25).

Nightwatchman Aga was unbeaten alongside Michael Yardy at stumps.