Letting a takeaway run an alcohol delivery service may contribute to a rise in domestic abuse, say community leaders and the police.

Famous Pizza, in Luton Road, Chatham, made an application to Medway Council to gain an alcohol licence.

If successful, it will be able to sell booze via a delivery service between 7am and 11pm every day.

However, Kent Police have objected to the plans saying the bid doesn't take into account the prevalence of crime in the area and how alcohol may contribute to this.

In a representation to the council, PC Andre Smuts, said: "This area of Medway has proved to be contributory towards a number of alcohol fuelled/induced crimes including criminal damage and - more prevalently and concerningly - domestic violence and violence towards women and vulnerable persons.

"A common factor during the perpetration of these crimes has been documented and evidenced to include the consumption of alcohol."

An objection was also raised by the council's public health department, and by the Arches Local community group, which said: "We know from the many conversations that we have locally, whether in the playgrounds of our schools, on our pavements or at the many activities we run, that misuse of alcohol is directly linked to incidents of domestic abuse and violent crime.

"Sadly, it is a blight that continues to devastate parts of our community, in particular young children."

The council's licensing hearing panel will debate the plans on Tuesday, December 21.