A 25-year-old man is due to appear before magistrates today charged with arson and endangering the life of eight people following a fire at a gift shop.

The blaze broke out at the Magpie’s Nest Gift Shop in Palace Street, Canterbury, last Friday night.

James Daniel Marsh, of Craddock Road, Canterbury, is also charged with burglary at the gift shop and burglary at the Little Italy Restaurant in St Peter’s Street, Canterbury, between 14 and 15 November 14 and 15. Cash was taken in both burglaries.

Marsh was charged by police on Monday evening and is due to appear before Canterbury magistrates.

Eight people were rescued from the burning building. All were unhurt.