Police are investigating after a fire broke out at a heritage railway — with the owners blaming vandals.

Crews tackled the blaze at the East Kent Railway, in Shepherdswell, near Dover, last night.

It is not yet known how much damage has been caused but lots of equipment and recovered artifacts have been lost.

The devastating news was broken on The East Kent Railway Facebook page shortly after midnight.

A post read: "We are sorry to announce that we have been hit by vandals and arsonists.

"This is a gutting time for our volunteers who work so hard to make the EKR a place for everyone to enjoy.

"We have lost a lot of equipment, power tools, generator, recovered artifacts and more.

"If anyone has any information please email our general manager on gm@eastkentrailway.co.uk

"We will be asking for donations and for offers of equipment if anyone has any for disposal, thanks for your kind consideration."

So far more than £940 has been raised through the page.

Police are investigating.

A spokesman said: "Kent Police is conducting initial enquiries following a fire at the East Kent Railway in Station Road, Shepherdswell, on the night of Wednesday, October 30.

"The cause of the fire is not currently known and anyone who believes they witnessed suspicious activity is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting 30-1712.

"Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111 or completing the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org."

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