A man has been charged with attempted murder after three people were reportedly stabbed.

Police were called to reports of an assault in Spital Street, Dartford, on Saturday (August 31) at around 8.20pm.

The emergency services attended and the road was cordoned off near the junction with Orchard Street and the Flying Boat pub.

Two men and one woman were taken to a London hospital where they were treated for injuries consistent with stab wounds. They remain in a stable condition.

On Monday (September 2), a 29-year-old man was arrested in Edinburgh, Scotland, in connection with the incident.

Eric Da Silva Soars, of Wharfside Close, Erith, has since been charged with attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

He appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court on September 5 and then at Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court on September 9 where he was remanded in custody.

He is next due to appear at Woolwich Crown Court on October 4.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Emma Lawry said: “We believe the suspect and victims are known to each other and are continuing to treat the incident as isolated.

“I believe there were a lot of people in the town at this time and I am keen to talk to anyone who witnessed what happened.

“In particular, I believe that a lot of people may have filmed the incident and I would like them to get in touch to pass this footage on as it will assist the investigation.”

Businesses previously spoke of their shock as church services and trade were disrupted over the weekend.

One said: "We did not realise what had happened until we came to start work in the morning and the area was closed off.

"This is very shocking. This is not a quiet area. It is busy with shoppers during the day and at night, people going to the pubs.

“There are fights here sometimes but nothing like this has happened.”

Police officers were still in the area on Sunday morning (September 1) and Spital Street was also closed to assist inquiries.

Anyone with video footage can submit this via the online portal.

Alternatively, you can call the north Kent appeal line on 01474 366149, quoting 46/147788/24. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously, by calling 0800 555111 or completing its online form.