Police have launched an investigation into the cause of a suspicious fire which started in a stairwell at a block of flats in Maidstone.

Officers were called at 9.30pm yesterday to reports of a fire at Miller Heights in Lower Stone Street.

Residents were evacuated while Kent Fire and Rescue Service worked to tackle the flames.

The fire was put out shortly after and residents were then allowed to return to their homes.

The investigation is ongoing and officers have carried out house-to-house enquiries and are also checking for any CCTV opportunities.

Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious of who has any information is asked to call 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/84240/20.

You can also contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111.

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone