People living near Chatham High Street had to leave their homes after a fire broke out when fireworks were reportedly lit and placed in bins in an alleyway.

Firefighters were called to an alleyway behind the high street, near the junction with Batchelor Street around 9.15pm on Saturday.

The fire is being treated as suspicious and a police investigation is underway.

A police spokesman said: "A number of fireworks were reportedly lit and placed inside bins in an alleyway behind the High Street, near the junction with Batchelor Street, between 9pm and 9.15pm.

"Nearby flats were evacuated as firefighters tackled the fire but no injuries were reported."

Anyone with information should call 01634 792209 quoting reference XY/25742/16, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.