DETECTIVES are investigating a suspicious fire which destroyed a marked police car parked at a police station on the Stanhope estate at Ashford.

The Peugeot 306 was burnt out and damage is estimated at about £4,000. It happened in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Det Insp Paul Fotheringham said: “We are conducting enquiries into this arson. We will not tolerate this type of attack on police property.

“There has been very little crime on the Stanhope Estate over the last few weeks and we intend to make sure this trend continues.”

Police are appealing for any witnesses to contact Ashford Police Station on 01233 619167.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers Hotline on 0800 555111. Calls to Crimestoppers are free, you do not have to give your name and you may be eligible for a reward.