A church leader suffered a broken arm after he was beaten and robbed in Gravesend while walking home.

Reverend David Helms, of St Alban's Church in Dartford, was attacked in Parrock Road on Saturday just after midnight when three men put him in a headlock and forced him to the ground.

Two men kicked him while the third stole his small wheeled suitcase containing clothing and medical equipment.

Mr Helms called 999 and was taken to hospital. Doctors told him he had suffered a fractured arm in the assault.

Archdeacon of Rochester Simon Burton Jones took a holy communion service on Sunday while Mr Helms recovered at home.

The attack was reported on the church's Facebook page.

Mr Helms said: "I can confirm the police details are correct. I think the main concern is for these guys to be caught and for witnesses to step forward."

Police are now appealing for any one who saw the attack, or knows anything about it, to come forward.

"The main concern is for these guys to be caught and for witnesses to step forward" - Revd Helms

All three suspects are described as wearing dark hooded tops, jeans and white trainers. One was round 6ft 2ins, another around 6ft and the third around 5ft 8ins.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Madeline Brackley, said: "This was a vicious and unprovoked assault in the early hours on a man who was given no chance to defend himself.

If anybody has any information regarding the incident, please call 101, quoting crime reference XY/237/15.

Alternatively, to remain anonymous, call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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