A man was taken to hospital after being 'attacked with a weapon' on New Year's Day.

Officers were called to a disturbance in Market Buildings, Maidstone, involving several people at around 4am.

It is alleged the victim, a man in his 20s, was assaulted with a weapon by a man he did not know and was left with cuts to his head and ear.

He was taken to hospital for medical attention.

Police are now appealing for witnesses following the serious assault and say the suspect is a black man who was wearing dark clothing and fled the scene before officers arrived.

Detective Sergeant Jamie Webb, of Maidstone CID, said: "We have been making enquiries in the area including the examination of CCTV footage and are now appealing to witnesses or anybody with information to call the appeal line.

"We would also like to receive any video footage taken on mobile phones of the incident or the Market Buildings area at around the time of the assault."

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting crime reference 46/216/22.

You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.