A pair of Afghan teenagers delivering Christian leaflets were slashed and beaten by three white men in the Sturry Road area of Canterbury.

One was slashed with a knife and the other hit with a piece of wood.

One police theory is that the assault was motivated by the attackers' fury about the delivery of Christian leaflets.

The victims were in Starle Close at 7.30pm Monday when they were set upon by the gang, two of whom were dressed in dark clothing and the other dressed in lighter clothing.

The 17-year-old victim was slashed on the chest and arm with a knife and taken to hospital, where he is due to undergo surgery.

His 18-year-old companion’s arm was broken when he was hit with a piece of wood. He was treated in hospital and allowed home on Tuesday.

The attackers left Starle Close and went off towards Sturry Road.

Det Sgt Jon Smith said: "We are waiting to speak in detail to the two young men who suffered serious injury and urge anyone who has information to come forward."

Anyone with any information is urged to call police on 01227 762055 or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.