Bar staff destroyed forensic evidence including blood following a violent attack at a pub in Rochester, according to a police report.

A man helping the landlord had his face slashed during an after hours drinking session at The Prince of Wales.

The victim, in his 20s and from Rochester lost more than a litre in blood and needed 40 stitches from his scalp to his cheek. The wound narrowly missed his right eye.

Police called for the pub to be closed following the incident in the early hours of Saturday March 10.The landlord Mr Alfred Martin has had his licence suspended on the grounds that the premises was associated with "serious crime and disorder".

Officers have been monitoring the venue amid concerns of drug abuse, under-age drinking and serving after permitted hours.

A warning letter had been sent to Martin as a result of their investigation.

Supt. Vaughan Lukey feared it could be "a flashpoint for further incidents or reprisals" should it remain open prior to a full review within 28 days.

CCTV required as part of the licence conditions was not recording at the time.

Mr Martin told the council panel that it had been switched off five days beforehand and he was waiting for a part. He confirmed the suspect had visited the pub over the previous three weeks, but had not caused any problems.

The opening hours to sell alcohol are Friday to Saturday from 10am to 12 midnight. Police were called to reports of a violent disturbance at 1.20am. A report to the licensing hearing said: "The crime scene(bar area and blood) was cleaned by staff prior to police arrival potentially hindering the investigation and possible forensic opportunity".

It added : "At this stage it is suspected that a large knife or machete was used as a weapon to cause the injury.

The interim hearing was on Tuesday March 13 and a full review will be heard on Tuesday.

A 17-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of assault. He has been released pending further inquiries.