A MAN who threatened to set fire to his boat prompted a large emergency response near Kingston Bridge this week.

Police, paramedics and firefighters were called to Thames Side, Turks Pier shortly before 11.50 pm on August 18.

Residents living nearby were made to evacuate their homes.

Officers were forced to gain entry after the man refused to leave.

A spokesperson for Met Police said: "Police were called at 11.47pm 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."