A 16-year-old boy has become the fourth youngster to be arrested amid an investigation into a huge fire at a derelict department store.

The blaze broke out in the former Debenhams building in Guildhall Street, Canterbury, on Monday at 8.30pm, forcing 30 people to be evacuated from their homes.

Businesses in the nearby area closed, while firefighters spent two days battling the blaze and making the area safe.

Over the following days, two 15-year-old boys and a 12-year-old girl were arrested.

One of the 15-year-olds has been released without charge, while the other two were bailed as inquiries continue.

Today police confirmed a boy from Canterbury has been arrested on suspicion of arson. He has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

A police spokesman said today: “Officers would like to thank everyone who has come forward with information relevant to the ongoing investigation.”

On Wednesday aerial photos showed the extensive damage caused to the roof of the former department store.

A cordon was put in place in the city centre on Monday, with eight engines on the scene and more than 50 firefighters at the height of the inferno.