A 20-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after two fires were started in four days at the same shop in Gravesend.

Firefighters were called to the basement of Kent Hair Studio in Harmer Street at 6am on Sunday and again at 3.55am today.

A man was treated for smoke inhalation after a blaze broke out in the hairdressers this morning.

Police have since arrested a man from the Gravesend area on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and remains in police custody.

Cam Javed, 44, manager of estate agents Tower Estates, was shocked to arrive at work at 8.45am this morning (March 27) to see police officers and a fire investigation team outside.

He said: “It’s quite worrying, being next door.

“As far as I’m aware the alarm systems worked fine and the fire brigade were called straight away.

“I hope they catch the person responsible.”

The hairdressers and part of Tower Estates remain taped off while police forensic officers and Kent Fire and Rescue officers investigate.

When the fire broke out on Sunday, residents living in the four-storey building above the shop were evacuated, as were others living nearby.

Firefighters used breathing apparatus, a hose reel and a main jet to tackle the blaze, while a positive pressure ventilation fan was used to clear smoke and fumes.

The cause of both fires is currently unknown but an investigation has been launched by Kent Fire and Rescue Service and Kent Police.