Five men have been arrested after a suspected mass brawl in a Strood alleyway.

One of them, a 46-year-old from Strood, is being held in custody on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.

The other four, including two 18-year-olds from Rochester, were arrested and bailed on suspicion of causing affray.

One of the four bailed men is believed to still be in hospital with serious head and facial injuries.

His injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Police were called to an alleyway behind Lilac Crescent, Strood, at 3.50pm yesterday after an incident between a group of people.

It is thought those involved were known to each other and part of a long-running dispute.

Detectives believe a weapon was used, but have not confirmed what this was.

Police and ambulance crews remained in Lilac Crescent and nearby Chestnut Road for several hours to investigate the scene. Forensics teams arrived at 7.20pm.

Officers are continuing to investigate the case, but have not yet made a specific appeal for witnesses.