A man has had to undergo open heart surgery after being stabbed in the chest in the centre of Chatham.

The man, who has not been named and is in his 30s, was taken to a London hospital after being stabbed in the High Street, at about 6pm last night.

It is understood he underwent surgery overnight and is now in intensive care in Kings College Hospital.

The incident happened near the Tulip Fruit and Veg and Meat Centre opposite the White Lion pub.

The Kent Air Ambulance, police and paramedics were called out to the incident but the injured man was deemed well enough by helicopter doctors to be taken to the hospital via land ambulance.

A spokesman for Kent Police said: “The man has been taken to a London hospital by land and officers remained at the scene conducting inquiries.”

No one has been arrested in connection with the incident and this afternoon police said the man is in a serious but stable condition.

The incident is being investigated by detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, who are appealing for information.

Anyone with information can call police on 01634 792209, quoting 28-1034, or the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555111.