POLICE are investigating two knife-related incidents in a Kent town in the space of a few hours.

A 22-year-old man was stabbed in the back as he walked along Newton Road, Tunbridge Wells, between Monson Road and Mount Pleasant Road, shortly before 11.30pm on Saturday.

The victim collapsed and was taken to the nearby Kent and Sussex Hospital where he was detained for treatment. His injuries are not life-threatening and his condition is now described as "stable".

Earlier in the day a 13-year-old boy and his friend were accosted by two older youths who threatened the boy with a knife and demanded that he hand over his mobile phone. The boy was left shocked but unhurt.

The youths wanted in connection with this incident are both black and about 16 or 17 years old. One was wearing a NY Yankees baseball shirt, and the other a grey hooded top and baseball cap.

Anyone with information about either incident is asked to contact West Kent police on 01732 370732 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Callers to Crimestoppers do not have to leave their name.

Following the incidents, Cllr Peter Davies, (Con) portfolio holder for Community Affairs at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, expressed dismay.

He said: "We are disturbed by these issues but fortunately they are still very rare in Tunbridge Wells. The Community Safety Partnership has a strong focus on issues related to the night time economy and other town centre safety matters.

"We constantly monitor reported incidents and will continue to work together to address them. We would always give every assistance to the police to improve community safety in our borough."