A man discovered lying on an unlit country road on Saturday night had suffered serious head injuries.

The 26-year-old from Canterbury was found by drivers travelling along Calcott Hill (A291), between Sturry and Herne, at 10.40pm.

Police believe he may have been "clipped" by a passing car but it is not yet known exactly what happened.

He was taken to the QEQM Hospital in Margate, before being transferred to the King’s Hospital in London, where he is in a serious condition.

Det Sgt Elly Heard from Kent Police revealed the man spent the early part of his evening with friends in Herne Bay before catching a bus to Canterbury with them.

She said: "This bus was the number 4, which left Herne Bay at about 10.15pm. As the bus reached the Punch Tavern at 10.30pm it appears the man got off the bus to go to the toilet, but his friends stayed on.

"From then it is unclear what has happened, he may have been 'clipped' by a passing car and knocked over."

The road was closed until 2.30am Sunday while investigations took place.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 01227 868120.