Arrests after fire at Folkestone seafront hotel forced hundreds of people to evacuate

Police investigating a fire at a seafront hotel in Folkestone that forced hundreds of people to be evacuated have arrested a man and a woman.

The man, who is aged 38, and a 21-year-old woman, both from the local area, have been arrested in connection with Saturday's fire at the Grand Burstin Hotel, in Marine Parade, Kent Police said on Monday.

The pair were detained on Sunday and have since been released as inquiries continue, the force said.

Some 280 people were moved from the hotel after emergency services were called around 1.20am on Saturday.

That evening, a further 90 people were relocated from nearby Pavilion Court in Marine Terrace over safety inspectors' concerns, Folkestone and Hythe District Council said.

Local roads are still closed for investigations as officers "work closely with partner agencies who are supporting those affected by the evacuation," a Kent Police spokesperson said.

At the height of the blaze, 26 fire engines were at the scene, Kent Fire and Rescue Service had said.

It is thought the fire started in the basement of the seafront hotel.

Kent Police previously said officers believe the fire may have been started deliberately.

No injuries relating to the fire have been reported.

The hotel overlooks the town's harbour and has 550 rooms, according to the Britannia Hotels website.

(c) Sky News 2026: Arrests after fire at Folkestone seafront hotel forced hundreds of people to evacuate