A WOMAN had to be rescued by firefighters after a blaze police say was started deliberately.

The woman, in her 70s, had been trapped in her flat in Brabourne Avenue, Gillingham, in the early hours of last Saturday morning.

The blaze was reported to police at 4.50am, but is believed to have started at around 4am and possibly may have been smouldering for some time before that.

The fire was located in a communal area between three flats and had prevented the woman from escaping.

Det Sgt Andrew Henshaw said: "We are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed anyone acting suspiciously at the time prior to the fire and also of any sightings of people lighting fires over the past couple of weeks."

Witnesses are asked to contact DS Henshaw on 01634 792524 or Kent CrimeStoppers on 0800 555111.