A derelict pub was consumed by flames last night.

Police, Kent Fire and Rescue Service and South East Coast Ambulance crews were called to Canal Road in Strood at 9.20pm.

The old Watermill Tavern was blazing and fire crews worked for an hour to put out the flames.

By 10.30pm all three emergency services were still at the scene and the road remained closed. There was restricted access to Strood train station until midnight.

It is believed there may have been squatters in the deserted pub

The first floor, which up until around two years ago was used as rented accommodation, was completely destroyed by the fire.

A spokesman for Kent Police said: "Officers attended to assist with traffic management. It’s believed the fire has now been extinguished."