A massive blaze that ripped through 35 acres of farmland is being treated as a suspected arson, police revealed today.

The fire, which destroyed fields of wheat near Dartford yesterday afternoon, was tackled by 40 firefighters.

Police want to speak to two young boys seen near a cornfield next to Shrubbery Road, South Darenth, at the time.

One of the boys was wearing a black top, the other was wearing shorts, a black top and colourful shoes.

PC Chris Relf, neighbourhood officer for Farningham, Horton Kirby and South Darenth, said: "Playing with fire is extremely dangerous.

"Not only are you putting your life, and the lives of others, at risk, you can also cause a huge amount of damage to property and wildlife habitats.

"I would urge anyone who was in the area at the time and who may have seen something that they thought was suspicious, or if they recognise the description of the two boys, to call police immediately."

Anyone with information should contact Kent Police on 01732 379 217 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.