DETECTIVES have launched an investiagtion after arsonists caused £9,000 of damage after starting a fire through the letterbox of a building occupied by a firm of financial advisors.

The building in Broad Street, Canterbury, suffered extensive smoke damage after something was pushed through the door and set alight in the early hours on Monday.

A passing taxi driver spotted the fire at The Bakery. Sub Officer Steve Wright said: "The fire had been burning for sometime but lack of fuel meant it was still trying to burn its way up the door when we arrived."

Firefighters were at the building, occupied by Lifeline Independent Financial Advisors, for 40 minutes. Insp Ray Carver said: "Playing with fire is both reckless and stupid. Once a fire has been lit it can quickly get out of hand and what may start off as a prank can so easily end up wrecking people's lives.

"Anyone found guilty of committing arson can expect to receive a sentence of anything up to life imprisonment." He added: "I would urge anyone who has any information about any of the people responsible to contact Canterbury CID on 01227 817154."