A 21-year-old man has been arrested following a stabbing in what is thought to be a drug-related dispute.

It happened on a housing estate in Canterbury which residents have complained to police is plagued by drug dealers.

The incident happened in Cornwall Gardens on the Spring Lane estate and police arrested a 21-year-old from Abbey Wood in London on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.

But they have been so far unable to trace the victim who left the scene.

Residents have been complaining for months about drug dealing blatantly going on in broad daylight in the area.

One woman, who did not want to be named, told the Gazette: “Spring lane estate now seems to have become the main drug dealing place in Canterbury.

“A man stabbed another man last week and the police arrested someone and took two large knifes away.

“Drug addicts congregate at the side of the shops every day waiting for the dealers.

"About eight of them appeared off the bus last week and on Sunday, a car with three men was waiting for a deal but some locals shouted at them.

"The police have been informed but nothing seems to be done. It’s still going this week.

“There are obviously families with children on the estate. It’s getting scary because knives are being used and who’s to know they won’t turn up with guns next time.

“I’ve lived on the estate since I was 10. This used to be a lovely friendly place and we just don’t want it.”

But police claim they are cracking down on the problem.

Inspector Chris Gurney said: "We are aware of reports of drug-dealing on the Spring Lane estate and I would like to reassure residents that we are working hard to combat it.

"Drugs fuel crime and anti-social behaviour. Stamping down on illegal drug supply is one of our district priorities. We are tackling the problem by targeting the people who are bringing drugs into our communities using all available resources.

“The public can help us by phoning the police if they suspect illegal drug supply is taking place in their neighbourhoods. If a crime is taking place call 999. For all other calls phone 101.”

He said that officers were called to reports of a stabbing in Cornwall Gardens, Canterbury, between 2.45pm and 3.06pm on Wednesday, August 12.

A 21-year-old man from Abbey Wood who was arrested, has been bailed to his London address until September 4 while investigations continue. His bail conditions include not returning to the area.

Police are still trying to trace the victim, who left the scene without speaking to officers.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to phone police on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference ZY/025159/15.