A 46-year-old Kent man is still in a critical condition at a London hospital today following an attack by a group of youths in a quiet residental area at Minnis Bay near Birchington.

A 16-year-old boy appeared before magistrates at Margate yesterday charged with causing grevious bodily harm with intent. He was remanded in custody and will appear before Margate Youth Court on Wednesday, November 30.

Six other teenage boys, aged between 14 and 16. were arrested and have been bailed until November 30 pending a Crown Prosecution Service decision to prosecute.

Michael Evans, who lives in Birchington, was attacked shortly before midnight last Saturday as he was walking home with his partner after an evening out in the village.

He underwent surgery on Monday having been transferred from the Queen Mother Hospital, Margate, to King’s College Hospital with serious head injuries. He is said to be in a "critical but stable condition".

Police say the couple were confronted by a gang in the area of the junction between Ethelbert Road and Arthur Road in Minnis Bay.The victim’s partner was unharmed.

Detective Chief Inspector Lee Russell, senior investigating officer, said: "This was a serious assault in a quiet residential area. This is an isolated incident, and to reassure our communities we are increasing high visibility foot patrols in the Birchington area.

"We would encourage anyone who has any knowledge of this incident to contact the police."

Detectives are appealing for three people who spoke to a group of youths outside Ursuline College in Birchington on Saturday night to contact them.

The two men and a woman were driving in a silver Peugeot 306 along Canterbury Road, from Birchington to Margate, sometime between 9pm and 11.30pm when a stone was thrown at their car.

They did a u-turn and stopped to speak to the group of youths about the stone-throwing incident. After a brief discussion, the car did another u-turn and continued on its way toward Margate.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Calls to Crimestoppers are free you don’t have to leave your name and you could receive a cash reward.