A man has suffered serious head injuries after being discovered on an unlit country road on Saturday night.

The 26-year-old from Canterbury was found by drivers travelling along Calcott Hill (A291), between Sturry and Herne, at 10.40pm.

It is not yet known if he had been hit by a car or fallen and banged his head.

He was taken to the QEQM Hospital in Margate, before being transferred to the King’s Hospital in London, where he is in a serious condition.

Det Sgt Elly Heard from Kent Police revealed the man spent the early part of his evening with friends in Herne Bay before catching a bus to Canterbury with them.

She said: “This bus was the number 4, which left Herne Bay at about 10.15pm.

“As the bus reached the Punch Tavern at 10.30pm it appears the man got off the bus to go to the toilet, but his friends stayed on.

“From then it is unclear what has happened, he may have been “clipped” by a passing car and knocked over.”

The road was closed until 2.30am on Sunday while investigations took place.

Police are now appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward with information. Anyone who may have also seen the man is urged to call 01227 868120.