Around 15 tons of hay was destroyed in a fire on parkland off Walderslade Road, Chatham.

Crews from Rochester and Medway fire stations spent three hours fighting the blaze at Snodhurst Bottom, after piles of cut grass were reported alight at around 2pm today (Monday).

Firefighters used a new 4x4 vehicle fitted with forks to separate the burning grass as they battled the blaze.

It is believed the fire was started deliberately, and prompted firefighters to warn families and children of the dangers of playing with matches and lighters.