There were fears of a large explosion as firefighters tackled a suspicious blaze at a disused scout hut containing 10 propane gas cylinders in Shadoxhurst.

The fire broke out in the building in Blindgroom Lane at around 6.45pm Tuesday. The blaze spread to a nearby tree, shooting up 40ft-high flames.

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of arson.

Fire crews had to work fast to prevent a blast.

Crew manager Tim Hanley said: "We tackled the fire as quickly as possible and then cooled the cylinders. Thankfully they are only dangerous when they are heated."

The hut was completely destroyed and half the large tree was also damaged.
Firefighters were at the scene for two hours.