A football club held a guard of honour for one of its star players who bagged a hat-rick ahead of his withdrawal from the team for cancer treatment.

Punjab United took on Lordswood at the club's home ground, the Steve Cook Stadium in Dunkirk Close, Gravesend, on Saturday.

The game, which was played as part of a post-lockdown tournament, finished all square at four a piece.

But the main highlight belonged to Punjab United midfielder Arun Suman who managed to score three goals ahead of his enforced break to pursue chemotherapy treatment.

A post-match guard of honour was held by the Punjab players and staff, who clapped him off the field at the full-time whistle.

The 24-year-old had kept his diagnosis under wraps from the squad until the final game as he was keen to see out the remainder of the tournament.

His family and friends were also present on the day to see him put in a fine performance.

"He is probably one of the nicest blokes you will meet and is a great player as well."

Following the game's conclusion, the club tweeted an emotional video wishing Arun Suman a speedy recovery.

Club chairman and manager Jugjit 'Chippie' Sian said: "It was quite emotional because we have got such a nice family unit.

"He is probably one of the nicest blokes you will meet and is a great player as well.

"He scored a hat-trick on his last game. It was one of those great send-offs."

Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend