A SECURITY guard was seriously injured after eight youths broke into an industrial compound in Rushenden on Sheppey.

The 63-year-old guard was patrolling the site in Rushenden Road when the youths, all thought to be aged between 12 and 16, broke in on Sunday evening.

They started up a forklift truck, which was on site, and drove it around causing £300 worth of damage. The security guard went to investigate when he heard voices but was attacked by two of the youths as he made his way back to the hut to call the police.

The man suffered a broken arm, bruising to his left eye and nose, and cuts to his face. He has been left severely shaken by the incident.

Police, who are not releasing the name of the business for security reasons, are now appealing for witnesses.

The first attacker is described as being white, with a thin face and was wearing a baseball cap and light brown tracksuit. The other is also described as being white and wearing a light brown tracksuit with stripes down the arm.

Anyone who may have seen a group of youths in the area between 5pm and 5.30pm on Sunday is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or Swale police on 01795 477055.