A van driver was "lucky" not to be crushed by a tree on his birthday has been arrested.

Officers detained the 23-year-old in St Gregory's Crescent, Gravesend, at around 8pm last night.

His van was crushed by a tree after he reportedly drove away from a crash and failed to stop.

Police spokesman James Walker said: "He was arrested on suspicion of driving while unfit through drink or drugs and was initially conveyed to a local hospital."

He then allegedly assaulted three police officers and a nurse at the hospital.

Sevenoaks police tweeted: "PC Luke and PC Wayne from Team 5 met the luckiest van driver today! Walked away unharmed.

"Nearly crushed by a tree and on his birthday too."

The man remains in custody as inquiries continue.

Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend