Two police officers have been praised for their bravery after rescuing a man from a burning building.

The officers, from Folkestone's local policing team, attended a home near Swan Lane, Sellindge, near Folkestone, following concerns for a man inside.

Shortly after arriving at the scene, at 12.40am yesterday morning, they noticed there was a fire inside.

One of the officers then entered the property through a window and pulled a man towards a door, which was locked.

As the fire then spread through the rooms, the officer's colleague smashed a glass panel on the door, allowing the officer and the man to escape.

The two officers then assisted in evacuating neighbouring houses, while Kent Fire and Rescue Service extinguished the fire.

No serious injuries were reported.

'Our officers are often the first at the scene of complex and dangerous incidents...'

Chief Insp Alice Ames, Folkestone and Hythe District Commander, said: "I would like to praise the immense bravery of the officer who entered this property to save the life of the man inside, and the quick actions of his colleague who helped get both men out.

"Our officers are often the first at the scene of complex and dangerous incidents and this fire is another example of how they use their courage and professionalism to keep people safe."

A man, Chris Pain, 57, of Brook Lane, Sellindge, has since been charged with arson reckless as to whether life would be endangered.

He appeared before Folkestone Magistrates' Court today and was remanded in custody to appear at Canterbury Crown Court on Monday, June 7.

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