Neighbours fled their homes after a suspected arson attack.

The fire happened in the roof space of a single-storey extension to a home, off Queen Anne Road, Maidstone.

The roof, which overhangs an area usually used to store bins, was significantly damaged, with burnt rubbish scattered around, and a satellite dish damaged.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service also reported that one home was "severely damaged" and another was affected by heat and smoke.

The exact cause of the fire is not yet known but the fire service says it believes it was malicious and has passed information to Kent Police.

Danielle Brown, who lives in Brooks Place - a set of flats next to where the fire occurred - said she had to evacuate her home while firefighters were at the scene.

She said: "I could see the fire. They had to take me, my niece and my nephew out of the building. We stayed outside while the firefighters did their job."

Four fire engines arrived just before 7pm last night and left at around 8.45pm.

Next-door neighbours Andrea Wiggins and Nathan Owen did not see the fire but have noticed increasing problems in the spot where the fire took place.

There's been incidents of fly-tipping, while needles and cigarette butts have been left strewn across the floor.

Mrs Wiggins said: "These bins have been an ongoing problem. I’ve reported it to the council at least twice and to the letting agent, and we’ve complained about fag butts.

"The letting agents said they would put up an ashtray but never did."

Mr Owen added: "I’ve even found needles back here."

Kent Police has been approached for comment.

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