THIS is the dramatic moment a popular Brighton restaurant was set on fire.

La Tana restaurant in Ladies Mile Road, Patcham, was targeted by arsonists in the early hours of Sunday June 18.

Firefighters from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service put out the fire.

No one was at the restaurant at the time of the fire but the occupants of the flat above were evacuated as a precaution.

Footage released by Sussex Police today shows two men outside the premises.

One is shown pushing something through the door and starting the fire while the other acts as a look out. They then run off.

The suspect who starts the fire was wearing a light coloured jacket, dark trousers and a trilby style hat.

His accomplice was wearing light coloured jacket and trousers and a beany style hat.

The restaurant reopened for the first time since the fire on Friday.

Detective Inspector Andy Wolstenholme said: "We are keen to trace the two men seen in the CCTV footage. If anyone recognises them or has any information please contact us."

A 52-year-old Hove man was arrested on suspicion of attempted arson with intent to endanger life, two counts of criminal damage, blackmail, possession with intent to supply class A drugs and released under investigation.

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police via the eform at: sussex.police.uk/appealresponse or call 101, quoting serial 50 of June 18.