A blaze which engulfed the first floor of a family home is believed to be arson.

Police have been on duty outside the home in Deal overnight following the fire, described by Kent Fire Brigade as "suspicious".

Two crews from Deal Fire Station were called to the two-storey home in Dover Road, Walmer, at 1.50 and were at first told there could be people trapped inside.

On arrival they found all the occupants already outside the building. No-one was hurt.

A Kent Fire Brigade spokesman said: "The first floor was well alight.

"A fire investigation officer was called to the scene and police have been on duty outside the building throughout the night."

The fire crews were at the property until 2.30am.