A rope tied across a popular cycling route that resulted in a nine-year-old boy being pulled from his BMX and injuring his neck has been seized by police to be sent for forensic examination.

Troy Baldock suffered bruising after he came into contact with the cord and was flung into stinging nettles in the woodland in East Malling.

His dad Grant Baldock said the incident, which happened at 5.30pm on Saturday near Hillberry Farm, had left his son scared to get back on his BMX.

Mr Baldock, of Wateringbury Road, says he has been contacted by other East Malling residents who have had similar experiences in the woods.

Police have said today that they are treating it as attempted grievous bodily harm and PCSOs have been patrolling the area on the lookout for similar traps.

Insp Elizabeth Jones said: "This incident is being investigated as a case of attempted GBH as the child could have sustained far more serious injuries as a result of this callous act. Thankfully his injuries were not more severe.

"In addition to sending the rope for forensic testing PCSOs have been patrolling the area in an effort to deter further offences and also look out for similar hazards.

"It may be that this was a poorly thought-out prank that went wrong and it would be advisable that the person responsible comes forward to explain their actions."

If anyone has any information that could help police, call 01622 604100 quoting reference 46/106535/21.

You can also contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form.

To get the latest updates in ongoing cases, police appeals and criminals put behind bars, click here.

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