Firefighters are appealing for help from the community in tackling arsonists after two blazes were deliberately set on Dartford Heath.

Two fire engines were sent to Heath Lane, Dartford, at just after 5.30pm on Monday and crews used beaters and portable water tanks to deal with the fires.

One engulfed an area of gorse measuring 20m by 20m, with the other an area of undergrowth measuring 5m by 10m.

It took just over half an hour to extinguish the flames, and Dartford fire station watch manager Vince Lewis has warned of the risks deliberate fire setting can pose.

"These types of fires can quickly take hold and develop into larger fires putting the environment, property and lives at risk," he said.

“Help us do our job which is to protect the community. If you see anyone starting fires deliberately, please call 999 immediately. Setting fire to grass, bushes and rubbish is dangerous."

Anyone with information on suspected arsonists - no matter how small the incident may be - is urged to either contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.