A man has been arrested after setting fire to his own boat in Kingston last night (18 August).

Police were called to Thames Side at Turks Pier at 11.47pm to reports of a man threatening to set his boat alight.

The man threatened the officers and started a small fire on his vessel.

Police then entered the boat and got him safely out.

The man was then arrested and taken to hospital.

In a statement onTwitter today, Kingston police said: "Police were called at 23:47hrs on Wednesday, 18 August to reports of a man threatening to set fire to his boat on Thames Side, Turks Pier, Kingston.

"Officers attended alongside London Fire Brigade and a number of nearby residents were evacuated.

"The man refused to leave and made threats towards officers before a small fire was started on the boat.

"Officers gained entry and the man was safely brought out of the property.

"He was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and arson and taken to hospital where he remains."

Nub News will continue to bring you updates on this story