Detectives say an arson attack which left a man in his 90s needing hospital treatment could have killed him.

The pensioner found the front door of his home in Basted Lane, Borough Green, on fire at around 10.30pm on March 8.

The garage next to the house was also ablaze and the contents, which included gardening equipment and a quad bike, were all destroyed.

The pensioner suffered smoke inhalation and was initially treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital.

Police have now issued an image which closely matches a ride-on lawnmower reported stolen from the property on the same night.

They want anyone who may have seen it or who has been offered one for sale, to get in touch.

Detective Inspector Simon Davy said: “This appears to have been a deliberate act and one which could easily have had fatal consequences.

“The fire has caused a huge amount of distress to the victim and we are continuing to do all we can to find those responsible as soon as possible.

“One of our lines of enquiry is around a large lawnmower, which was reported stolen during the incident.

“It is a red and black Encore ride-on mower and particularly distinctive as it does not have a steering wheel.

“Instead the mower is operated by a number of prominent levers.

“If you think you may have seen this item, or know of one being offered for sale please call us immediately.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 01622 604100, quoting reference YY/6073/17 or the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555111.