A man has been charged with arson after allegedly starting a fire in a flat.

Firefighters and police were called to the property in Roberts Lane, Ebbsfleet following reports of the blaze.

Marc Holt, of Littlebrook Manor Way, Temple Hill, Dartford, is due to appear in court accused of arson and criminal damage.

The 38-year-old has also been charged with a further seven suspected offences: breaching a non-molestation order, sending a malicious communication, two counts of assault and additional two counts of criminal damage.

The victim in those alleged offences, which are said to have taken place between December 2020 and July 2021, is known to Holt.

A fire service spokesman confirmed crews were called to a flat shortly after 6am on July 21 to reports of a fire in a bedroom.

Two fire engines attended and spent about an hour putting out the flames while wearing breathing apparatus.

No casualties were reported and an investigation found the cause was believed to be suspicious.

Holt also faces a further charge of assaulting a police officer on August 12.

He appeared at Medway Magistrates Court to face the charges against him on August 13.

He has been remanded in custody to attend Woolwich Crown Court on September 10.

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