A Maidstone bookshop which was destroyed by a massive fire has been demolished eight months on from the devastating blaze.

The fire broke out in The Works in Week Street in the early hours of Monday, June 8.

Builders have recently demolished the gutted shop.

The surrounding buildings are still shrouded in scaffolding as teams continue to carry out repairs along the stretch of street.

The fire, thought to have been started deliberately, is thought to have cost more than £5 million in damage and caused disruption around the town centre.

Police launched an investigation into the arson and within a few days arrested a man.

Adam Stajer was remanded in custody for six months until his trial at Maidstone Crown Court in December.

The case was dropped and the 21-year-old was found not guilty and released without charge.

Mr Stajer, or Lower Stone Street, denied arson with intent to endanger life.

Evidence emerged from a new witness who said he could see flames coming from rubbish in Week Street at 1am - an hour before the fire was said to have taken hold and when Mr Stajer was seen passing by.

Following the trial, Mr Stajer's family told KentOnline of their relief with the decision.

After the trial Kent Police said they would re-examine the evidence to determine who or what started the fire.

Officers continue to appeal for anyone with information to call 101.