ARSONISTS struck at a social club twice in one night causing thousands of pounds of damage and forcing out two community groups.

The Earl Estate community centre and social club in Albatross Avenue, Strood, was set alight on two occasions on Tuesday.

The club had to close as it had no water or electricity and sustained substantial fire and smoke damage.

A play school and a group of people with learning difficulties who use the centre, have had to cancel sessions until further notice.

The first fire started at 9.30pm in wheelie-bins which had been set alight and positioned up against wooden back doors. About eight people were inside and the building had to be evacuated.

Hours later, after the building had been locked up, stewards John and Anne Bell, who live in a flat connected to the club, realised their home was filling with smoke and another fire had been started.

Mr Bell, said: “The cost of the repairs could come to at least £10,000.”

Kent Fire and Rescue and Kent Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the fires, which are thought to have been started deliberately.

Anyone with information is asked to call Medway Police on 01634 884136 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.