Police are searching for a group of youths who are suspected of causing an explosion inside a public toilet.

They are believed to have blown up the loos in Park Street in Lydd, forcing residents to leave their homes after they heard the loud bang shortly before midnight on Saturday.

The council-run toilets sustained damage to the rear wall and window during the small explosion, which is being treated as an isolated incident.

Kent Police spokesman Martin Very said: “Police officers went to the scene, cordoned off the toilet block and evacuated approximately 20 residents from nearby houses.

“A Ministry of Defence bomb disposal team attended and examined the scene. No devices were located.”

Now Det Sgt Cara Ferguson wants to track down those responsible. She said: “We are treating this as an isolated incident.

“I would like to speak to anybody who has any information about the damage. We are particularly keen to hear from any young people from Lydd who may know who was involved.”

A Shepway District Council spokesman said the toilets will remain closed until repair works can be carried out.

Anyone with information can call Kent Police on 01843 222289 and quote reference number ZY/033116/16.