A 16-year-old boy is to appear before a court today charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent following a street attack on a 46-year-old man.

The boy is due to appear before magistrates at Margate. Detectives say he lives in Margate.

Two other 16-year-old boys arrested at the weekend in connection with the assault in Birchington have been bailed until November 30 pending further police enquiries.

The victim, from Minnis Bay, near Birchington, underwent surgery on Monday and is still in a critical but stable condition in a London hospital. He suffered serious head injuries.

Police have also arrested three other boys in connection with the incident late on Friday night.

Two of the boys are aged 15, one from Broadstairs the other from Birchington. The third is a 16-year-old from Margate. All were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and are currently at Margate Police Station assisting officers with their enquiries.

The attack happened as the victim was walking home with his partner after an evening out in Birchington.

In the area of the junction between Ethelbert Road and Arthur Road in Minnis Bay they were confronted by a large group of up to 10 people. Police were called to the scene by a local resident. The victim’s partner was unharmed.

Detectives say they expect to make further arrests in connection with the incident and are continuing their appeal for information.

* Margate police can be contacted on 01843 222192, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Calls to Crimestoppers are free you don’t have to leave your name and you could receive a cash reward.