A four-figure reward is being offered for information which leads to the conviction of a suspected arsonist who targeted a village pavilion.

John Waite, 59 - whose family have used the sports pavilion in Hersden near Canterbury for four generations - was compelled to put £500 forward after he witnessed the devastation caused, yesterday.

Sharing his dramatic pictures of the scene on social media, other villagers shared his sadness and chipped in additional £50 and £100 tokens.

The final sum on offer now stands at £1,700 to anybody who can provide police with the name of those responsible.

The attack occurred on Saturday morning and required four fire engines to be sent to the scene.

Yesterday, the scene was forensically examined and officers conducted door to door enquiries.

Mr Waite said: "I was gutted when I saw it. The pavilion being burnt down has devastated not just me but our whole community.

"It’s been used by my family for four generations.

"This is why I decided to offer a £500 reward to find who has done this. Once I put my intentions on Facebook many villagers and friends that have played football at Chislet Colliery Football Pitch starting adding to the reward.

"We're now at £1,700 and I think that shows the strength of feeling.

"Chislet Colliery Football team have been unable to use the pavilion all season due to it being vandalised and we were just about to start the repairs and now we are left with nothing."

Louise Murphy Waite, of Shaftesbury Road, whose bedroom window looks straight across to the pavilion witnessed the live flames.

She said: "It’s part of our heritage which is why this saddens me so much.

"It’s like watching our memories burn down this morning. It actually brought me to tears."

District commander, chief inspector Julien Lawton said: "We believe the fire was started deliberately and are very keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything at all unusual or suspicious.

"I would also appeal to nearby residents, who have not yet spoken to my officers, to check any CCTV they may have outside their homes."

Anyone with information which may assist the investigation, is asked to call the Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 4-0162.

You can also contact Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org

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