The director of a Gillingham manufacturing firm has thanked firefighters after his business was attacked by arsonists.

Fire crews were called after a blaze was started in the entrance to hose clip manufacturers Jubilee Clips in Owens Way, off Gads Hill, between 8.50pm and 9.15pm on Tuesday.

Police have since appealed for information, and managing director Ian Jennings spoke out in the aftermath of the incident.

"I'd like to thank Kent Fire and Rescue crews especially, Jodi, Vinnie and their team for their swift action to contain the fire as well as Kent Police officers who were on the scene very quickly to collect evidence; we all hope never to have to see these professionals in action, but should always be grateful for their professionalism and bravery, as we certainly were last night.

"Thanks to the efforts of our staff there will be no impact to our customers arising from this incident."

The said the fire had caused smoke damage, which had been pervasive, adding: "Other than that the fire brigade gaining access and making everything wet has had an impact, but nothing too severe from an operational point of view for the business and most importantly nobody was hurt."

Inspector Vanessa Foster, of the Medway Community Safety Unit has appealed for witnesses or anyone who might have seen someone acting suspiciously top contact the appeal line.

Motorists with dashcam and residents with CCTV are also asked to check for footage that could assist the investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Kent Police on 01634 792209, quoting 46/16256/22.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form on their website at www.crimestoppers-uk.org