THREE young off-duty police officers were kicked and beaten by a gang of men after being recognised outside a kebab shop in Ashford.

The officers, all aged in their 20s, needed hospital treatment and the attack only stopped when uniformed police arrived on the scene.

The young officers were thrown to the ground and repeatedly kicked. One of the victims suffered serious injuries to his head, face and ribs. He needed stitches in his wounds and will need further treatment. The other officers also suffered bruising.

Supt Peter West, said: "We will not tolerate this type of incident and are investigating the offence thoroughly."

It is understood the beating was captured on town centre CCTV, which is now being studied by officers investigating the assault. The three men involved were on a night out when they were spotted by a large gang of men outside the Fountain Kebab Shop in Ashford's Lower High Street just after 2am on Saturday.

Police spokeswoman Rosy Alexander said: "The officers involved are co-operating as much as they can with the inquiry. It happened quite quickly and by the time other officers and patrols arrived some people had dispersed and others had come along.

"It was quite a confusing situation which is why we are appealing for witnesses to come forward. It was a sustained and quite violent attack We are obviously concerned the officers were off-duty and out enjoying themselves and not in uniform."

Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to call 01233 619186. A man has been arrested in connection with the attack and released on bail pending further inquiries.