A boy has suffered second degree burns to his arms and chest after a prank went wrong.

The 15-year-old, from the Maidstone Road area of Rainham, is understood to have been hurt after lighting paper with petrol.

It happened at about 5.50pm on Monday .

The boy was taken to Medway Maritime Hospital with concern about his breathing.

A spokesman for Medway Police said: “Officers were called to the address where a boy with two friends were playing with petrol, burning paper.

“As a result, a small fire started and the 15-year-old burnt himself on his arms and torso. No criminal investigation is under way.”

Insp Noel Stanley added: “Fortunately the boy did not suffer more serious burns.

“People of all ages should be aware of the dangers of highly flammable liquids such as petrol, and not using them responsibly. This incident should act as a warning to others not to play with petrol.”