ARSONISTS are thought to be responsible for starting a fire in a derelict shop in the county.

The shop in Kestrel Road, Lordswood, near Chatham was set on fire at about 2.30am on Sunday and was well alight when firefighters arrived.

A crew from Medway fire station was called out to deal with the burning building.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "A water pipe in the one part of the building had quite a big leak and the floor had flooded.

"We do suspect arson and the police were on the scene with us."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 01634 891055.