Police are hunting two teenagers in connection with a major fire at a former nightclub, which is now being treated as arson.

Detectives want to speak to two hooded youngsters seen near the Onyx site on Folkestone seafront shortly before the blaze engulfed the roof on Tuesday evening.

Fire crews spent all night tackling the flames, which severely damaged the empty building.

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Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Maxine Harris said: "The cause of the fire is currently being treated as suspicious.

"We would like to speak to anyone who might have been in the area at the time of the fire.

"In particular we would like to trace two men who were reportedly in the area of the building at around 8.45pm as we believe they may be able to help our inquiries.

VIDEO: Onyx nightclub goes up in flames

"They are both described as around 18 years old, white, 5 ft 10 ins tall, with slim builds and wearing dark coloured hooded tops."

The club, affectionately known as the Priz, closed last year as plans proceed to develop Folkestone's harbour. Demolition work started at the site last month.

Peter Bettley, spokesman for Folkestone Harbour Company, which is developing the site, said yesterday: "My understanding is that the Onyx site investigation has already been completed and that the building was handed back to the demolition contractor this afternoon.

"They will assess what effect this might have on the timetable for demolition but it is not expected to have too much of a bearing on the matter."

Anyone with information about the fire is asked to call police on 01843 222289 quoting 08-1171, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.