A hostel had to be evacuated after a fire started in one of the bedrooms.

Firefighters were called to the property in Pier Road, Gillingham, at 11.30pm on Monday.

The building had filled with smoke so all 20 residents had to leave while crews tackled the flames.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue said: "The fire had started on a bed and the foam mattress had caused a lot of smoke.

"We sent in two officers wearing breathing apparatus and we were able to stop the fire from spreading. But there was a lot of smoke damage to the rest of the building.

"It is unclear if there was anyone in the room when the fire started."

Kent Police is now investigating the blaze.

Bradley Kenrick, 20, of Pier Road, Gillingham, has been charged with arson and remanded in custody.