Counter-terror police are helping with the investigation into the stabbing of a soldier - as detectives are given more time to question a man.

The victim, who is in his 40s, was rushed to hospital after the attack in Gillingham where he remains in a serious but stable condition.

Armed police, forensic officers and paramedics were called to Sally Port Gardens near Brompton Barracks at about 6pm on Tuesday evening after reports a man riding a moped had stabbed someone.

A huge police presence has remained at the scene – as well as Mooring Road in Rochester, where a red moped was removed and a 24-year-old man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder yesterday evening – throughout the day.

Officers say counter-terror police are involved but not leading the investigation.

Police had earlier said how they believed the incident was not terror-related.

In a statement released this evening, police said: “The suspect, a 24-year-old local man, is reported to have left the scene on a motorcycle and at approximately 6.30pm was located and arrested in Mooring Road, Rochester.

“As he has now been in custody for more than 24 hours, an extension has been granted that gives officers more time to conduct inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.”

People in the area said the community was “knocked for six” as politicians, including the Prime Minister, spoke of their shock at the incident.

KentOnline understands the victim was living in military accommodation in the street.

An air ambulance was called to the nearby Great Lines Heritage Park at about 6.30pm.

A heavy police presence remains in the area this evening as officers continue their investigations.

Acting Chief Superintendent, Richard Woolley said: “We are keeping an open mind as to the motivation behind this incident and we are exploring a number of lines of inquiry – these include the possibility this incident was mental health-related as well as any links the suspect may have with the location of the assault.

“The investigation has been supported throughout by Counter Terrorism Policing South East as we work to establish the full circumstances.

“Kent Police officers will continue to be on patrol in the area to offer reassurance to members of the public and are more than happy to speak with anyone who is upset or concerned about what has happened.

“It remains the case that we do not currently believe anyone else was involved and there is no further information at this time to suggest any wider threats to the local community, including members of the armed forces.

“Our thoughts remain with the victim, his family and those who witnessed the incident at this difficult time.”

Sir Keir Starmer, appearing at his first Prime Minister's Questions, opened by saying: "I know the whole house will be shocked by the news that a soldier has been attacked in Kent.

"Our thoughts are with him, his family and our Armed Forces who serve to keep us safe and we wish him a swift recovery."

An Army spokesman said: “We’re very sorry to confirm that a soldier has sustained serious injuries in an attack in Gillingham, Kent.

“Our thoughts are with the soldier and their family and we request that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.

“We will continue to work closely with police to understand what happened and support the investigation.

“Anyone who witnessed the attack or who has any relevant information should contact Kent Police.”