A family had to flee their home in the middle of the night after a suspected arson attack.

The front door of the property in Apple Orchard, Swanley, was destroyed in the blaze, which also caused extensive smoke damage.

The occupants were awoken at around 1.25am to the sound of a smoke alarm.

They discovered the front door was on fire and flames were spreading into the hallway.

They managed to get out without serious injury and the fire was put out by The Fire and Rescue Service.

A forensic examination of the scene has since determined the cause of the fire, which happened on March 11, was started deliberately.

Officers have carried out house-to-house enquiries and are continuing to appeal for any information which may assist the investigation.

DC Kate Humpheryes of west Kent CID said: "We believe the fire was started deliberately, at a time when the occupants were sleeping.

"It has destroyed the front door and the entire property was also heavily smoke damaged, but clearly this could have potentially been much worse.

"We are very keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything at all unusual or suspicious and would appeal to nearby residents, who perhaps we have not yet spoken to, to also check any CCTV systems they may have outside their homes."

Anyone with information is asked to call the west Kent appeals line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/45780/20, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org

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