A bus shelter has been destroyed in an arson attack, leaving a parish council “deeply distraught”.

The wooden structure in Birchwood Road in Wilmington, near Dartford, was set alight at around 2.40pm on Friday, June 14.

Wilmington Parish Council chairman Stacey Brown said: “The parish council prides itself on retaining the history and heritage of our parish, with items such as our traditional bus shelters, by maintaining and servicing them.

“We are deeply distraught at the mindlessly cruel vandalism caused by setting fire to the vintage bus shelter in Birchwood Road.

“The incident, in broad daylight, resulted in thousands of pounds worth of damage.”

Two fire engines attended and crews used high-pressure hose reel jets to extinguish the flames.

The cause is believed to be suspicious.

The parish council says it has received a quote for £9,480 to replace the shelter.

This does not include the cost of removing what is left of the existing one, which has now been taped off.

Photos of the aftermath show discarded vapes and rubbish.

Cllr Brown added: “We are appealing to the public to come forward with any information.

“Vandalism such as this, is thoughtless, selfish, with ultimately an unwelcome heavy financial cost.

“We hope the culprits are rightly brought to account.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 01474 366149, quoting crime reference 46/99671/24.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the online form.