Arsonists are thought to be behind a blaze which saw a car go up in flames near a petrol station.

Dramatic footage shot by Simona Siskovaite shows the vehicle on fire just off the Mill Way roundabout near the BP petrol station in Sittingbourne.

The 33-year-old said she was in bed looking at her phone when she heard a “strong bang” from outside at around 12.55am today (Monday).

She said: “Me and my husband jumped and ran to the window and saw a fire with big flames.

“I shouted to my husband to call the firefighters. I was shocked and scared as there could have been people inside.

“But thank God the car was empty. About 10 minutes after the call the firefighters came and they put out the fire.”

A Kent Fire and Rescue spokesman confirmed crews were called at around 12.55am.

One fire engine attended, and crews extinguished the flames using a hose reel jet.

No injuries have been reported.

The spokesman added: “The cause is thought to be deliberate.”

Police also attended after being called to assist firefighters just before 1.10am.

A police spokesman confirmed an investigation was launched as the fire is being treated as “suspicious”.

People who have any information should call 01795 419119, quoting reference 46/2377/24.