Two houses were evacuated amidst fears that flames could spread from a nearby tree fire in Maidstone last night.

It is thought a discarded cigarette was responsible for the blaze that caught hold in trees in Northumberland Road, Shepway, just before 11.30pm on Tuesday, February 5.

Police were called and evacuated the nearest homes as they waited for fire crews to arrive.

Two fire engines attended and the blaze was out by 11.50pm.