An investigation has been launched into the cause of a fire at an Ash restaurant and takeaway.

No one was hurt in the blaze early on Saturday morning, but the building in The Street was badly damaged.

Det Sgt Andy Chapman said: "The circumstances surrounding the fire are being treated as suspicious.

"An investigation is under way and we are asking anyone with information which may be of help to get in touch."

They are asked to phone police in Ashford on 01233 896282 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police taped off the area around the Lagaan restaurant and takeaway after fire swept through the building.

Firefighters from across east Kent were called to the blaze, which started just after 3am.

One member of a Kent Fire and Rescue crew heading to the scene said the glow of the flames could be seen from outside Deal.

He added: "Our aim was to stop the fire spreading to the adjacent buildings."

The Ragaan Indian restaurant is a family-run business and the building is a former pub.