The FA has launched a probe into three Kent football clubs following reports of fighting and violence after recent games.

Whitstable Town, Faversham Town and Hythe Town, who all play in the Bostik South East League, are all being investigated following incidents involving players, staff and crowds.

Evidence of an alleged 40-man brawl following the game between Faversham and Hythe at Salters Lane - involving players from both squads - is being reviewed by the FA.

An inquiry has also been launched into an incident after Whitstable’s 1-1 draw with Hastings at the Belmont on Saturday, when fans had to be locked in the bar to protect them from danger.

The club is looking at an episode allegedly involving home supporters and Hastings players which turned into a melee at the full-time whistle.

Fans were locked in the bar and women were screaming as the pushing and shoving lasted around three to four minutes, but police were not called.

A fan said the game had been 'niggly' throughout and a red card for Whitstable’s Ricky Freeman in stoppage time had led to a confrontation around the referee.

At the final whistle, a group of Hastings players reportedly ran to the touchline to confront some home fans.

The supporter said: “I was in the bar so can only assume that some of the fans outside the bar voiced their opinions to the players.”

Hastings FC says the club is investigating the "very unsavoury incident".

In Saturday’s matchday programme, Whitstable chairman Joe Brownett said the club had been improving its poor disciplinary record this season.

He wrote: “We are pleased with our disciplinary record over the past month and congratulations are due to the way the club has handled its administration in not getting any fines.

“We are due to meet the league commission next month when we will be putting a strong case for our discipline record to assure them as to our intentions going forward.”

A spokesman for the FA said: “We are aware of the matter and currently investigating. Both cases are ongoing.”