AN ARSONIST responsible for a series of fire attacks in a Kent village is still at large following an eight-month investigation.

Throughout December and January, Headcorn, near maidstone, was subjected to a sequence of fires, usually started in rubbish bins during the early hours of the morning.

The most serious blaze occurred just before Christmas when a fire spread from waste bins to an extension at the rear of Waltons Bakery in the High Street, causing damge estimated at £20,000, and temporarily shutting the shop.

Police thought they had their man when a fire was set behind the Kings Arms pub in the High Street on January 26.

They arrested a 28-year-old man from the village in connection with the incidents but released him on police bail while investigations continued.

His bail was continuously renewed until two weeks ago, when the case against him was dropped.

Police spokesman Gianna Polero said: “In August the investigation was jointly reviewed by the police and the Crown Prosecution Service and as a result of that review, the police decided there was insufficient evidence to bring any charges.”

Headcorn Parish Council chairman Tim Thomas said: “It’s disappointing that nobody has been charged. If there is an arsonist in the village, you have to worry that it is only a matter of time before there are further fires.”