Sheerness: Fire Leaves Two Critical

An investigation is underway into the cause of a big fire at a four-storey block of flats in Sheerness.

Two people are reported to have jumped from the top of the building in Marine Parade after flames broke out at about 3.25pm yesterday.

At its height, 30 firefighters were battling the fire and a group were still damping down at the scene at 9.45pm.

Police say one man was rescued by firefighters using a ladder, while a woman and two children were helped to safety by a member of the public.

Three people have been taken to hospital - two of them are believed to have suffered life threatening injuries.

A Kent Police spokeswoman said: "The cause of the fire is currently unknown and Kent Police is working with Kent Fire and Rescue Service to establish the cause.''

Neighbouring properties were also evacuated and roads in the area were closed. A cordon remains in place around the building.