A woman is due in court today after allegedly striking a police community support officer in the face.

Nicola Barns was arrested in Chatham High Street at 1.59pm on Wednesday following reports that she had stolen items from a shop.

She then allegedly assaulted an officer, who stopped her in the street.

The 46-year-old, of no fixed address, has since been charged with theft and assault.

She was remanded in custody and is appearing at Medway Magistrates’ Court today.

The PCSO did not sustain any serious injuries and remained on duty.