A CCTV image has been released of the so-called 'Tovil Torcher' wanted in connection with a spate of arsons in Maidstone.

Detectives want to speak to the man in connection with as many as nine car fires started in recent months.

Vehicles parked in Old Tovil Road and Launder Way, Tovil as well as cars in Florence Road, Fant, have all been targeted.

The offences tookbetween the end of June and mid August with the offender entering cars and trucks which may have been left insecure, before typically starting fires on seats.

Some of the blazes caused serious damage, including to personal property left inside the vehicles. No items have been reported stolen by victims.

House to house checks and forensic analysis of the crime scenes have been carried out and Kent Police is now keen to speak to the man pictured.

The image appears to show a white man, wearing light trousers, a blue jacket and possible black boots.

Maidstone Chf Insp Mick Gardner said: "While the CCTV image may not show a huge amount of detail, we are hoping it may possibly jog some memories. It was captured in Hayle Road shortly before a number of fires were reported in Tovil on August 18.

"If this person seems familiar to you or you have any other information which may help our investigation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch."

Anyone with information should call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting crime reference 18-0145. Alternatively, contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111