A young girl has died despite neighbours rushing into a burning house to save her.
Firefighters attended the blaze at the semi-detached home in Hamstreet near Ashford just after midday on Sunday.
The ground floor windows had been completely blown out by the blaze, while Santa and Rudolph sleigh decorations lay deflated in the front garden.
Another child, believed to be a teenage boy, was rescued from the property and remains in hospital.
Three firefighters also suffered minor injuries in the blaze, but have been released.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently ongoing.
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Ann Millington, Kent Fire Rescue Service’s Chief Executive, added: ‘Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with everyone affected by this tragic incident, especially the child’s loved ones.
‘We understand this will be a distressing time for the local community and support is available at a welfare hub set up at Hamstreet Village Hall.’
An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently ongoing.
Six fire engines are currently at the scene battling the inferno, as crews work to bring it under control.
Neighbours reported desperately trying to enter the home but being ‘beaten back’ by the flames.
One said: ‘It started downstairs and spread really quickly.
‘There was nothing we could do at that point.
‘It was really bad. We were all beaten back.’
A statement from Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: ‘Crews are currently responding to a house fire in Hamstreet, Ashford.
‘People living or travelling near this area are being advised to close windows and doors due to smoke coming from the incident and to also stay away from the area.
‘Six fire engines and a height vehicle are currently in attendance and crews are working hard to contain the fire and extinguish the flames.’
A spokesperson for Kent Police said: ‘Kent Police was called at 12.22pm on Sunday 28 December 2025 to reports of a fire at a house on White Admiral Way in Hamstreet.
‘Officers are in attendance and are assisting Kent Fire and Rescue crews with closure of the road while they extinguish the fire.’
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