A 33-year-old man has been charged with arson and stalking after a stable fire.

Paul Goodwin, from Dover, has appeared in court after the blaze off The Street, in Worth, near Deal on Sunday.

People reportedly “risked their lives” to rush two horses to safety in a nearby field amid the fire, which started at 6pm and continued burning late into the night.

One woman, who has an equine at the yard, said on Facebook: “Last night our horses lost their home after our stable block, storage and hay barn was burnt to the ground.

“Two of my friend's horses were bravely rescued before they were harmed.

“Amazing people risked their lives to save them.

“This morning in the true light of day the devastation the fire has caused is just awful.

“Hours of time, love, effort and money have been put into making their house a home for them.

“Our horses have lost the majority of their belongings but luckily none of them were harmed.”

A GoFundMe page has been started to help pay for repairs and replace the items lost in the fire.

Police have since confirmed Goodwin has been charged with a public order offence and sharing images with intent to cause distress, as well as arson and stalking.

He appeared at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court yesterday and was remanded in custody to return to court at a later date.

Officers are continuing to investigate following the charge and would like to trace a silver 2004 five-door Vauxhall Astra with a private registration plate, which was seen in the area around that time and may still be parked nearby.

A police spokesman added: “Anyone with information about the car’s location or who has dashcam or CCTV footage from the A258 Deal Road, Coventon Lane or The Street in Worth between 4.30pm and 8.30pm on Sunday, October 29 is urged to contact officers.”

Witnesses can call police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/193314/23, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111 or completing an online form.