Police have launched an appeal for witnesses after a man was found with serious injuries to his stomach.

The 36-year-old was discovered collapsed on the forecourt of Robins and Day Peugeot car dealership in Mill Street, Maidstone in the early hours of today.

Paramedics from South East Coast Ambulance Service were on the scene shortly after 3am.

It is believed the man, who is now being treated at a London hospital, had been attacked.

A police spokesman said: "Officers were called to Mill Street at 3.12am on Sunday.

"The victim was found in the forecourt of a car dealership with an injury to his abdomen."

Detective Inspector Natalie Potter said: "Enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances of the incident and whether the assault took place in Mill Street or elsewhere in Maidstone.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time and saw any suspicious activity."

This morning the scene had been cordoned off with police tape and an officer was on guard.

The injured man is believed to be from Maidstone.

The dealership refused to make any comment today.

A spokesman said: "We are extremely busy. This is a matter best dealt with by the police."

Anyone with information should call the police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 19-0208.

Or you can call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.