A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson following a “devastating” blaze which saw multiple vehicles scorched.

Fire crews were called to reports three commercial coaches were alight in Canal Road, Gravesend, at around 3am on May 16.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service said four fire engines attended and crews wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the flames just before 4am.

No injuries were reported and the fire service previously said the cause was believed to be accidental and linked to a possible engine fault.

However, police officers have since arrested a 32-year-old man from Gravesend on suspicion of arson in connection to the incident.

He has been released on bail until Saturday, August 17, while inquiries continue.

Coach hire firm Grange Travel, based in Albion Parade, released a statement earlier this week claiming the scorched vehicles.

A spokesman for the family-run company added: “In the early hours of Thursday morning we were victim to a suspected arson attack and sadly three of our commercial vehicles along with some cars perished in a devastating fire.

“Kent Police has been amazing at its skill and supportive throughout the whole process.

“However, due to an ongoing investigation, we are unable to comment any further at this time.

“Be assured that if and when we do find out the truth it will be shared.

“Although we lost vehicles, we are lucky, vehicles can be replaced, people cannot, and we thank our lucky stars no one got hurt.”

Those living near the yard previously told KentOnline they heard “small explosions and bangs” as the fire broke out.

Dramatic video footage of the blaze showed the flames growing bigger as the fire spread and black smoke billowed into the air behind the trees.