Police are hunting a man who reportedly set fire to the front of gas meters housed in a small wooden cupboard.

Officers were called at 10.45pm yesterday to concerns someone had been seen acting suspiciously outside flats in Kent Road, Dartford.

A resident had managed to put out the blaze before police and fire crews arrived. Nobody was injured.

Detectives have released this e-fit image of the suspect who is believed to have walked off in direction of the Westgate car park.

He is white, of medium build and with fair hair. He was wearing a light blue top, jeans and white trainers and carrying a black bag.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Paul Oliver said: "Although no one was injured, setting fire to gas meters could clearly have resulted in serious injury to the occupants of surrounding properties.

"This incident happened late at night but we are hopeful someone may still have seen or heard something, or knows who is responsible. If you recognise the man in this image please get in touch."

Call the appeal line on 01474 366149 quoting reference XY/34806/16. Alternatively phone Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.