FIREFIGHTERS tackled a blaze at the former police station in Upper Stone Street, Maidstone for nearly three hours last night.

The old police station, on land owned by Kent County Council, has stood empty for years and has been a target for vandals.

Crews from Maidstone and Medway were called at about 1.30am with the fire spreading to the first floor and roof causing substantial damage. It was brought under control at about 4am.

Building control engineers from Maidstone Borough Council have been called to see if the building is now at risk of collapse. An investigation has been launched.