Three teenage boys arrested on suspicion of arson following a 'suspicious' bus fire in a village have been bailed.

Police investigating the incident in Mill Lane, Shepherdswell, near Dover , at 3.50pm on Friday are now appealing for witnesses.

A spokesman said: "Detectives investigating a suspicious bus fire in Shepherdswell, near Dover, are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

"Enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the fire are ongoing and three teenage boys have since been arrested on suspicion of arson.

"They have all been released on bail while the investigation continues."

Pictures show how fierce flames consumed the front of the vehicle , which became surrounded by black smoke.

It blocked the narrow lane as it burns - although firefighters brought it under control within 50 minutes.

The single decker Stagecoach bus was carrying passengers at the time of the incident.

But the firm has confirmed all were safely evacuated by the driver and there were no injuries.

A spokesperson for Stagecoach South East said: “We can confirm that a fire took place on one of our buses yesterday in Dover.

“All passengers were safely evacuated by the driver and there were no injuries.

“The safety of our passengers and staff is our first priority. We will assist the emergency services with their inquiries and will also carry out our own internal investigation.”

Anyone with information is urged to call the appeal line on 01843 222289. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Read more: All the latest news from Dover