ARSONISTS are thought to have been responsible for a fire at the former Argos store on Sturry Road at canterbury. Three pumps from Canterbury and Sturry were called at 2am today after nearby residents reported a blaze in the empty building.

Firefighters had to wear breathing apparatus to tackle the fire, which had started towards the back of the former store.

A spokesman for Canterbury fire brigade said: "A side door had been forced and the fire was started right at the back of the building.

"We had a bit of trouble getting to the fire because of all the smoke. I'm pretty sure someone had started it deliberately."

A spokesman for Canterbury police confirmed that the fire was being investigated.