POLICE investigating a fire at the Black Lion pub in Southfleet earlier this week have arrested and bailed a man.

The 19-year-old, who is from the Dartford area was arrested on Tuesday, January 20 and taken into custody where he was questioned by detectives in north Kent.

He was released on police bail on Wednesday, January 21 pending further inquiries.

A joint investigation is underway by Kent Police and Kent Fire and Rescue Service into the blaze which badly damaged the Black Lion pub in Red Street, Southfleet in the early hours of Tuesday.

Flames spread quickly resulting in a partial collapse of the building. The cause of the blaze is being treated as suspicious.

Police are appealing for information and witnesses to the fire. If you have information which may help with their inquiries, call Detective Sergeant Dave Masters at North Kent Police Station on 01474 366098 or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.