A man is fighting for his life in a London hospital after being stabbed in Maidstone town centre.

Police have cordoned off one end of Week Street after the serious assault at about 6.55pm.

The police cordon in Week Street where forensics officers have been called in

Officers were called by medics from the ambulance service after the man was found with a stab wound.

Forensics officers have been carrying out work at the High Street end of Week Street and a police team with dogs were searching the High Street, Market buildings and alleyways leading off the High Street.

An appeal for information has been issued by detectives investigating the attack.

A police spokesman said: "Officers attended the scene where the man received medical attention before being taken to a London hospital for treatment to injuries that are described as life threatening.

"A second man who is also thought to have been injured had left the scene before the attendance of emergency services and officers are urging him to contact Kent Police at his earliest opportunity.

"A suspect in his 40s has been arrested in connection with the incident and been taken into custody."

Police appealed for witnesses or anybody with information to call the appeal line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 3-1151.

You can also contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111 or by using the anonymous online form.

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone