THREE men are in hospital after a savage knife attack at a petrol station on Blue Bell Hill between Maidstone and Chatham.

The three victims had pulled into the Shell service station on the Chatham-bound carriageway of the A229 at around 11.15pm on Thursday.

They were followed by a K-registered green Rover. A number of men then got out of the Rover and attacked the three Maidstone men with knives and a hammer.

They were taken to Gillingham's Medway Maritime Hospital where their injuries were not described as life threatening.

Police believe there were members of the public in the service station at the time who could hold vital information. Police are still unsure what the motive was for the attack.

Anyone with information is asked to telephone Maidstone Police Station on 01622 608189.