A house fire in Hamstreet, Ashford, Kent left one child dead and another child hospitalized as firefighters responded to the scene today.

Chief Executive announces condolences and notes that a welfare hub is available to provide support to the community.

Six fire engines and a height vehicle attended the incident, supported by a volunteer response team as crews worked to dampen the flames.

The incident prompted community alerts and guidance for traffic and area safety, with residents advised to avoid the vicinity and wait for further updates.

The fire was brought under control and residents were later allowed to open windows as operations subsided.

The scene has been reduced and crews continued to manage hotspots as dampening efforts continued.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service issued initial warnings for residents to close windows and doors due to smoke, later lifting the advisory as conditions improved.

Earlier guidance to close windows and doors due to smoke has been lifted as the incident narrowed to fewer engines.

Kent Police assisted with road closures and the area was advised to avoid the vicinity until further notice.

The fire caused significant damage, including blown-out windows and a partially destroyed roof, with Santa-themed decorations in the front garden still visible.

Remains of the home were charred and authorities were still dampening hotspots in the latest update.

The report notes input from Kent Fire and Rescue Service and references their spokesperson statements.