AIR and Breathe nightclub in Dartford has been badly damaged by a second fire in two months.

Police are appealing for information following the "suspicious" blaze which broke out in the reception area of the Essex Road club in the early hours of September 20.

It appears the fire started at the front doors of the club and quickly spread into the foyer.

A fifth of the ground floor has been damaged and the rest of the two-storey building has been affected by smoke.

Fire crews tackled the blaze from 3.30am until 4.40am. No-one was injured.

More than 40 firefighters from Gravesend, Dartford, Swans-combe, Maidstone, Medway and Canterbury helped out.

Thermal imaging equipment was used to check the fire had not spread.

Police were called to the scene after firefighters arrived.

Officers are now viewing CCTV footage from the club.

They are appealing for anyone who saw two men near to the club between 3am and 3.30am, possibly wearing crash helmets and dark clothing.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Andy Jobes: "This was quite a serious fire and I would urge anyone who saw these men or anyone acting suspiciously to contact police immediately."

Police are looking at similarities between this incident and another fire in July, although it is too early to say whether they are linked.

The July 24 fire broke out at 12.15am and 50 firefighters tackled the flames until 7.50am.

A spokesman for Air and Breathe nightclub said: "The management and staff of Air & Breathe apologise for the inconvenience caused.

"The fully refurbished venue will be unveiled in three weeks.

"We won't let these vandals spoil the enjoyment of our regulars. It's business as usual."

Anyone with information should call Det Con Jobes on 01322 283114 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.