A cross, candle sticks and an old Turkish carpet have been damaged by an alleged vandal at Rochester Cathedral.

Officers were called to the landmark, which is the second oldest cathedral in England, shortly before midday to reports a man was damaging property inside the building.

A 52-year-old man is in custody after being arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.

Acting Dean Philip Hesketh said the cross on the high altar had been broken and candle sticks had been damaged.

The oil in the candles has also caused damage to a very old Turkish or Persian carpet by the altar. The altar itself was not damaged.

He added: "The police to their credit responded very quickly and the most important thing was no one was hurt or injured. No one at any time was in danger."

A passerby said she saw several police cars, an ambulance and plain clothes officers outside the cathedral.

A police spokesman said: "Kent Police was called at 11.51am to a report of a man damaging property inside Rochester Cathedral.

"Officers attended and arrested a 52-year-old man on suspicion of criminal damage. He remains in custody."