An elderly man has been taken to hospital with a head injury following an alleged assault in Asda.

A spokesman for the supermarket confirmed he was injured on the escalator, at the side entrance to the store in Thames Way, Gravesend, at 6.35pm on Friday, due to "youths throwing a trolley".

They added: "We understand that the gentleman was taken to hospital to receive further care to the injury on his head and the police are now investigating further.

"The safety of our customers is incredibly important to us, and as a business we do not tolerate any form of verbal or physical assault in our stores.

"We will continue to work with the police on their inquiries."

The spokesman said police were called immediately and store staff have since tried to contact the injured man but have not yet been able to.

Asda was forced to close its side entrance – which connects the store and the Overcliffe – last week after the lift and escalator were vandalised.

Multiple signs were posted inside to make customers aware of the problems it has been facing.

One read: "Due to recent incident with youths, we have unfortunately had to close our side entrance due to vandalism and damage caused to lift and escalator.

"We are awaiting repairs to these areas. We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

Another said: "No bikes or scooters allowed in the store. Please use the designated bike racks and padlock your bike/scooter."

A police spokesman said: "Kent Police was called at 6.35pm on Friday following a report a man had suffered injuries at Imperial Retail Park, Gravesend.

"Officers attended along with South East Coast Ambulance Service and the man was taken to a local hospital.

"Enquiries are ongoing to determine how the man came by his injuries and anyone with information is urged to call the north Kent appeal line on 01474 366149, quoting crime reference 46/35856/23."