DETECTIVES have issued a special telephone number for people who may have vital information about a warehouse blaze which it is thought was started deliberately.

Damage casued to the catering supplies building in Austin Road on Ashford's Wotton Trading Estate on Monday night has now been estimated at two-and-half million pounds.

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious, or has any information is asked to contact Det Con Terry Adams on 01233 896280. Alternatively, if people want to remain anonymous they can phone Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Seven young people from the local area, aged between 14 to 17, have been arrested on suspicion of arson and released on bail while officers make further enquiries.

The blaze broke out at around 9pm on Monday. Police later carried out a risk assessment due to hazardous substances in nearby buildings, but firefighters prevented the blaze spreading to other premises on the trading estate. There were no reported injuries.