Doormen have told of "distressing" scenes after rushing to help a crowd of pedestrians knocked down by a car in a high street.

Five people were injured after they were reportedly struck by a Renault Clio in Canterbury in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Police say it followed a "verbal altercation" at the junction with Guildhall Street, and a 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and drink-driving.

Two of the those hit by the car were taken to hospital.

The incident happened at some time between 2am and 2.25am, just hours after England had beaten Ukraine in their Euros quarter-final clash.

Luke Kyle, 39, who works for Akon Security, was just finishing work at the nearby Citi Terrace bar when he heard what had happened on the radio.

"Myself and two colleagues ran down there to see if we could help, because it sounded serious and we're first aid-trained" he said.

"When we arrived police were already at the scene and there was a woman who we were told had gone over the bonnet of the car, while another guy was hobbling about with what looked like a broken ankle.

"There were a lot of very distressed and angry people.

"It was one of the worst incidents I've seen in my 20 years doing this job..."

"We just tried to calm everyone down and keep onlookers away while the emergency services did their job.

"It was one of the worst incidents I've seen in my 20 years doing this job."

Mr Kyle added: "Our Akon colleagues who work at The Pound at the Westgate Towers say they saw the vehicle coming down St Peter's Street and managed to get the number plate."

It is understood the car was no longer at the scene when police arrived, with the suspect arrested between Canterbury and Herne Bay.

He was later released on bail while enquiries continue.

Officers investigating the incident are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

They are keen to talk to anyone who saw the car in the area, or who has CCTV or dashcam footage that could help the investigation.

Call 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/116598/21, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

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