A schoolboy suffered head injuries after he was punched and kicked on the ground during a seafront brawl.

The 16-year-old was rushed to hospital after the fight between two gangs of youths in Marine Terrace, Margate, at about 5.10pm on Tuesday.

Detectives say the teen was set upon by at least five people, after being struck to the floor.

A police spokesman said: "It took place opposite Hall By The Sea Road.

"A 16-year-old boy was punched and fell to the ground, where he was kicked by a group of at least five people.

"We attended and the boy was taken to a local hospital with head injuries.

"He has since been discharged."

In a bid to stamp out crime in the area, a 48-hour dispersal order was put in place for the town's seafront.

The move gave officers extra powers to move on anyone causing trouble and arrest anyone who persisted.

Meanwhile, officers are stepping up their investigation into the brawl and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

In particular, they would like to hear from onlookers who may have mobile phone footage of the incident.

Anyone with information should call police on 01843 222289, quoting the reference number 46/139101/22, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.