This is the devastation left after arsonists targeted a cricket club's headquarters.

Harrietsham Cricket Club will now be forced to have the building, in Booth Field, off Church Road, Harrietsham, demolished and rebuilt following the fire shortly after 6am yesterday.

Crews from Lenham and Charing used breathing apparatus and hose reel jets to try to save the 40-year-old pavilion, which stores almost all the club's equipment.

However the fire had taken hold and many of the main timbers were destroyed.

Despite the huge setback for players the traditional Sunday game went ahead as planned yesterday afternoon.

"We can't let a fire stop us," said club spokesman David Oversby.

A Kent Fire and Rescue spokesman said the cause of the fire was suspicious and the police have been informed.