Work is forging ahead on repairs to the arson-hit Tesco Express store in Mill Court, Ashford.

More than 20 firefighters were called to the convenience store near the Mace Lane roundabout in Ashford at 1.30am last Friday as a fire badly damaged the building's roof and caused extensive internal damage.

The blaze appears to have started at the rear of the store and is being treated as suspicious by police who have appealed for witnesses.

At one point there were four fire engines, a height ladder and a bulk water carrier at the scene of the blaze, where crews used sticky foam to prevent the flames spreading. Firefighters remained at the scene until around 4.30am.

The fire gutted the building in Mill Court, which is also home to the adjoining Paydens Pharmacy.

Hours after the fire was put out workmen moved onto the site to begin the clear-up and start repairs.

Throughout this week contractors have been removing tiles from the building's roof as surveyors have been checking for structural damage.

It is understood a crane will be moved onto the site early next week and that could involve the installation of temporary traffic lights to control vehicles passing the area.

It is not yet clear how much the suspected arson will cost to repair, or how long it will take for the two premises to reopen.

Police are probing the cause of the fire, which they think was started deliberately as it follows several incidents of vandalism directed at the Tesco store.

Staff at the store have been switched to work at three other Tesco shops in Ashford.

Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to call the appeal line on 01843 222289 quoting reference ZY/12485/17.