A child has died after a house fire in Kent, emergency services have said.
Another child and an adult were taken to hospital after the blaze occurred in White Admiral Way in the village of Hamstreet, near Ashford, on Sunday.
Kent fire and rescue service (KFRS) said “an intense fire” had spread throughout the semi-detached property when firefighters arrived shortly after 12.10pm. Six fire engines and an aerial fire vehicle were sent to tackle the flames, it said.
A spokesperson said: “Sadly, one child died at the scene, and another child and adult were taken to hospital.”
Three firefighters were also taken to hospital after sustaining minor injuries and were later released.
Two fire crews remain at the scene to dampen down the fire, supported by a volunteer response team, and an investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
Ann Millington, the chief executive of KFRS, said: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with everyone affected by this tragic incident, especially the child’s loved ones. We understand this will be a distressing time for the local community and support is available at a welfare hub set up at Hamstreet village hall.”
Firefighters had urged people living or travelling through the area to close windows and doors due to the smoke, but this advice has now been lifted.
Kent police said its officers assisted with the closure of the road while firefighters extinguished the blaze.
