Police have issued CCTV images of a man they want to speak to after gas meters were set alight outside homes.

The arson attack, which happened in Kent Road, Dartford at around 10.45pm on Saturday, September 3, put lives at risk and could have caused an explosion.

A man was seen sitting on the ground near a wooden cupboard containing six meters, before torching it and walking away in the direction of the Westgate car park.

Emmanuel Eke and his daughter Elizabeth previously told of the terrifying moment they realised what was happening outside her home.

They doused the flames with kettles of water before flagging down a passing police van.

Officers are now appealing for the man in the CCTV images to come forward.

They also want to talk to a woman who was seen hugging the man in the CCTV before she went into the Air and Breathe nightclub.

She is described as white, aged in her 20s, with brown hair which was tied up. She was wearing a black top with a floral pattern on. She also had a black bag and was wearing black trousers.

Detective Constable Phil Pead said: "Setting fire to gas meters could have resulted in serious injuries to the occupants of the surrounding properties and it was only by sheer luck that no one was injured and this fire was found by a resident and put out.

"I would encourage anyone who recognises this man to get in touch."

Witnesses or anyone with information can call the appeal line on 01474 366149 quoting reference XY/34806/16, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.