A man has suffered "life-changing" injuries after being shot by police in Kent overnight.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed an "independent investigation" had been established after "a man was shot and seriously injured by Kent Police" who were responding to an incident near Park Gate Inn on Monday about 9pm.

It is understood the area has been cordoned off with forensics seen in the car park of the pub in Hollingbourne.

Aerial footage has shown bomb squad vehicles parked near the pub with a cordon remaining in place.

The A20 Ashford Road remains closed on Tuesday morning in both directions between Chegworth Road and Penfold Hill.

“We were notified by the force after the incident in Hollingbourne, which occurred shortly before 9pm, and declared an independent investigation a short time later," an IOPC spokesman said.

"The man is receiving treatment in hospital for his injuries, which are thought to be life-changing."

The IPOC spokesman said investigators have been sent to the scene to gather information as inquiries into the incident continue.

GB News has contacted Kent Police for comment.