A police probe is looking at whether pedestrians were deliberately driven at when a car smashed through the front of a pub packed with customers.

The incident happened around 9.30pm last night at the Cinque Port Arms in New Romney High Street, leaving four people hurt.

This morning, a statement on behalf of the pub team, said the drama began when a man who wasn't known to staff was escorted of the premises.

He allegedly got in his car and drove towards the pub while people were gathered outside.

The car hit the front of the pub, causing injuries to some customers and staff.

The statement added: "We have been asked by the police to make no further statement relating to the driver or the incident at this point as it could jeopardise any future Police investigation.

"However, we would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff who not only remained calm but acted in a highly professional manner to ensure our customers and children above the pub were safely evacuated while assisting the emergency services.

"We would also like to thank the emergency services for their rapid response
and the service they provided."

Builders have been working through the night to make the pub structurally safe and the team hope to open for business later today.

"The Cinque Ports Arms is a Community Pub in the heart of New Romney that will not tolerate inappropriate behaviour. This is a one-off incident and we would like to reassure our customers their comfort, safety and enjoyment will continue to be our priority.

"Thank you for your continued support."

The Grade II listed pub has been put up for sale.

Kevin Gibbons, landlord, said he will be sad to see the 700-year-old pub go.

Speaking to our sister paper the Kentish Express, he said: “We have worked so hard on this place and we have created a monster of a business, we just can’t cope with the demand now as things have changed."

Mr Gibbons and business partner Sharon Epps took over the pub two years ago in their first venture as landlords.

They have since shelled out more than £500,000 in an ambitious overhaul.

Police said a 24-year-old, reported to be the driver of the car from New Romney, has been arrested in relation to the crash and remains in custody.

A force spokesman said four other people were injured.

Anyone with information who is yet to speak with officers can call 01843 222289 quoting 24-1510.