Two arrested over major fire at Kent hotel

Image source, Dave Hennessy Image caption, The fire service said the blaze was believed to have started in the basement

Two people have been arrested after a fire at a seaside hotel which led to hundreds of people being evacuated.

Kent Police said a 38-year-old man and 21-year-old woman were held after the blaze at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone on Saturday. A detective at the scene said the pair had been arrested on suspicion of arson.

The fire broke out at the hotel in Marine Parade in the early hours and about 280 people were evacuated from the building.

A total of 90 people were relocated from Pavilion Court in Marine Terrace following concerns raised by safety inspectors, Folkestone and Hythe District Council said.

The pair who were arrested have been released while inquiries continue.