Police have confirmed to KentOnline they have received reports of historic child abuse within the football community.

More than a quarter of UK forces now say they are looking into abuse allegations, with more people coming forward by the day.

Kent Police refused to reveal how many cases it is currently reviewing, or which clubs are involved.

In a statement to KentOnline a police spokesman said: "Should victims come forward to Kent Police to report incidents that have taken place elsewhere in the country, then we will support them appropriately.

"But the investigation of those offences would be carried out by the police force that covers the area where the abuse is reported to have occurred.

"If there are victims in Kent that have not come forward we would encourage them to do so with the assurance that they will be treated sensitively and seriously."

A dedicated hotline set up by the NSPCC in response to the allegations received 860 calls in its first week.

The National Police Chiefs' Council has said about 350 people have so far reported abuse to forces around the UK.

Anyone wishing to contact the NSPCC helpline can do so on 0800 023 2642.