A BLAZE which started in a flat of a three-storey building is being treated as arson.

Fire crews were called to Maida Road, Luton, Chatham, shortly before noon on Thursday.

Initial information suggested someone may have been trapped inside, causing firefighters wearing breathing apparatus to enter the building. But a search confirmed it was empty.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service, said: "It was quickly established no one was inside the building.

"Every room has smoke damage and the room where the fire started was severely damaged. The police are investigating."