A statue outside council offices has been set on fire in a suspected arson attack.

The incident happened outside the Canterbury City Council building in Military Road.

A PCSO on patrol was told the sculpture was on fire on Saturday, March 5.

It is understood to be the wooden 'Metamorphosis of Glaucus' carving.

Police inquiries suggest a man approached the statue shortly after 9pm that evening and set it on fire.

Although the statue has not been destroyed, the blaze blackened it. A sculpture of the merman, called the Metamorphosis of Glaucus, was created by woodcarver Daniel Hilton and unveiled 10 years ago.

It depicts a fisherman who is transformed into a sea god after eating a magical herb.

An investigation is ongoing and officers would like to speak to anyone who has any information which may assist enquiries.

They particularly want to find two men who were seen speaking to the suspect in the area around the time of the fire.

Anyone with any information is urged to call police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/48475/22.

You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form.