A teenager is recovering after he was hit on the head with an iron bar on a school playing field.

The 16-year-old suffered head injuries and cuts and bruises to his face, arms and hands during the attack, which took place in front of other pupils.

The incident happened at 2pm at Swadelands School, Lenham, on Tuesday.

The victim was taken to hospital, and police spokesman said his injuries had not been life-threatening.

Shortly after the attack police arrested a 14-year-old boy from the Maidstone area. He is not a pupil at Swadelands, and has been bailed until January 29 while the CPS look into the case.

A witness described seeing blood everywhere.

Head teacher Richard Baddeley said staff and pupils had reacted swiftly to the situation.

He said: "I would like to thank staff for their swift response and also to the pupils who witnessed the attack who conducted themselves in a responsible and mature manner.

"Thankfully, incidents of this nature are extremely rare and we will continue to work with the police and partners, to ensure that our school remains a safe environment for all."

One parent, whose 11-year-old son attends the school, said the incident had shaken parents and pupils alike.

She said: "My son came home and was really upset. He said blood was everywhere.

"I was frightened to send him to school the next day.

"Everyone has been talking about it and wondering just how it could have happened."