Arsonists are believed to have started a fire which spread to a garden shed near Ashford Designer Outlet this afternoon.

Neighbours had tried to put out the blaze before firefighters arrived at Bulleid Place, Ashford, at 3.47pm today, following reports of a fire in vegetation.

Crews who arrived at the scene discovered a garden hedge and shed alight.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "Neighbours had been attempting to extinguish the flames using garden hoses but this had proved ineffective."

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fire and say the incident was resolved by 4.15pm.

There were no reports of any injuries.

The incident has been reported to Kent Police as the cause is believed to be suspicious.

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