Armed police were called to a busy town centre after a teenager was knifed in broad daylight.

The 19-year old man was airlifted to a hospital yesterday (August 6) after suffering injuries “consistent with stab wounds” near the High Street in Gillingham.

He rushed into the KFC in Canterbury Street where staff were asked to call for help.

An air ambulance, which was pictured landing nearby at Great Lines Heritage Park, flew the victim to a London hospital.

His injuries are not deemed life-threatening and he remains in a stable condition.

The manager of the KFC in Canterbury Street has since spoken of the horror as the young man ran inside the fast food restaurant bleeding and shouting for help just after 4pm.

Raza said: “He kept saying ‘sorry, sorry’ and asking to call an ambulance.

“Luckily police were on patrol nearby.

“He came inside for safety. We were busy at the time and it shocked some people.”

Raza, who has run the business for eight years, said there were two boys aged between 18 and 20.

“I did not recognise them,” he added. “Gillingham, Medway is a big area, and we have good and bad times.

“But generally, it’s better here than anywhere else.”

The manager said they were shut during the incident which involved police forensics but have since reopened today (August 7).

“Everyone is okay and we are open as normal today,” he added. “I know he was taken to hospital, I hope he’s okay.

A spokesman for Kent Police confirmed they attended a report a 19-year-old man had sustained injuries “consistent with stab wounds” near Canterbury Street, Gillingham.

“Officers, including firearms officers, attended the area and the victim was flown to a London hospital by South East Coast Ambulance Service,” he said.

No arrests have yet been made and police say enquiries are ongoing.

A statement from Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) said: “A helicopter from Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) was dispatched to Gillingham on August 6.

“We are unable to provide further comment on this incident.”