KENT Police are investigating after a man had ammonia thrown at him in a Gravesend restaurant.

Officers were called by ambulance staff just after 6pm yesterday (November 4) to The Copperfield, in Gravesend Road.

A 26-year-old Gravesend man and his girlfriend were having a meal at the restaurant when he was approached by a man who asked him outside for a fight.

When the victim declined, it is alleged the suspect sprayed a liquid substance in his face which caused burning and problems with breathing, before stabbing him in the back with what has been described as a fork.

The victim suffered swollen airways which meant he found it difficult to breathe, as well as burns to his face and eyes.

He also suffered minor stab wounds to his back and was taken to Medway Maritime Hospital.

He is currently in an intensive treatment unit.

Officers are keen to speak to a white man who is described as in his mid 20s, 5ft 10ins tall and of medium build with short brown hair.

He was wearing a dark blue or black jacket with dark blue or black jeans.

North Division’s Detective Inspector, Ivan Beasley, said: "This was not a random attack as we believe the victim and suspect are known to each other.

"We also believe the liquid substance used was a household substance used for cleaning.

"Kent Police is actively looking for the suspect and is appealing for witnesses to come forward and help us with our enquiries."

Anyone with information, should call Kent Police on 101 quoting reference XY/033496/12 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A 25-year-old man from Strood has been arrested on suspicion of grevious bodily harm.