A 23-year-old who set fire to a shed after drinking a litre of vodka has been jailed for four years.

Damien Christie, previously of Fant Road, Maidstone admitted committing arson recklessly after setting alight to a shed of a property in Tarragon Road, Barming, in the early hours of March 8.

A family were asleep inside the house at the time - but luckily a neighbour raised the alarm and everyone escaped unhurt.

Significant damage was caused to the side of the house and the guttering melted.

Christie admitted drinking a litre of vodka before the incident.

DC Andrew Felton said: "Although Christie was under the influence of alcohol this cannot be used as an excuse for reckless behaviour.

"His actions were both highly dangerous and irresponsible and he will now face a lengthy prison sentence as a result."