CCTV footage caught the suspect in action as they left the club after starting the fire.

Police say this person may have suffered burns or smoke inhalation and witnesses are urgently being sought by police. Detectives discovered petrol cans at the scene last week and are now appealing for more information.

DI Stu Hale said: "We are particularly keen to hear from patrol station operatives who may remember selling full or empty green or red fuel canisters, some days or hours prior to approximately 2am on Tuesday July 15. Your information will be treated in the strictest confidence.

"We are also keen to trace the person pictured in the CCTV stills. Do you know of anyone who may have suffered smoke inhalation or other more serious effects caused by fire?"

The fire at the controversial new lap dancing club Redd was started in the early hours of the morning on Tuesday July 15.

More than 100 firefighters and 18 appliances attended the scene and several firefighters narrowly escaped with their lives.

Anyone with information about the arson should call DI Hale at Haywards Heath 0845 60 70 999, quoting serial 122 of 15th July.

Alternatively, to give information about crime anonymously, ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.