Two heroic cadets averted a potential disaster after springing into action to put out a fire in a Maidstone shop doorway.

The youngsters stopped the spread of what is thought to have been an arson attack, which led to cardboard boxes going up in flames outside The Works and Trespass in Week Street at 6pm last Thursday.

It was in the same place as a devastating inferno which broke out in similar circumstances back in 2015, and destroyed The Works.

On that occasion it is thought discarded cigarette ash ignited rubbish and cardboard boxes outside the store.

It caused an estimated £5m of damage, gutting the shop and spreading to several other buildings.

During last week’s fire, passers by reported seeing two teenage boys in cadet uniforms moving dry boxes away from the burning one, stopping the spread.

It is believed they were from Maidstone Grammar School.

Elise Jones, a floor assistant who works for Mountain Warehouse opposite, said: “We could smell burning, we weren’t sure if it was one of our heaters so we walked out the door.

“In front of Trespass there were some cardboard boxes on fire.

“The cadets were trying to move some of the boxes out of the way.”

A passer by, Derek Bond, praised the “brave boys” adding: “These two young men moved the blaze out of harm’s way and waited for the fire brigade.

“Considering The Works burned down before you’d think they’d stop putting cardboard boxes outside.”

Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called and the blaze was extinguished by 6.15pm .

A spokesman said: “No casualties were reported, it’s believed the fire was started deliberately.”

Can you help identify the brave cadets? Email messengernews@thekmgroup.co.uk