Lydd Town defender Ryan Smith has been suspended pending a Kent FA disciplinary commission following an incident during the Kent Invicta League derby against Ashford United at Homelands.

The county took action after Ashford forwarded photographs which appear to show Smith’s studs landing on home player Ollie Finch, leaving him with a badly cut face during the Boxing Day clash.

The pictures also appeared on The Sun website last week.

The incident was missed by the match referee who sent off Ashford’s Liam Whiting and booked five players in the game which the home side won 7-2.

Finch managed to play on but was taken off soon afterwards.

Ashford chairman Ernie Warren said: “We were forwarded the pictures and the club took the decision (to send them to the Kent FA) because we were shocked by what we saw.”

Lydd secretary Bruce Marchant added: “We are disappointed by Ashford’s actions and Ryan will be seeking a personal hearing.

“Ashford video their games and we have requested a copy for us to view.

“We were notified at the weekend about his suspension and responded on Monday.”