MEDWAY Police has apologised for its inadequate response after knife-wielding thugs threatened party-goers at an 18th birthday bash.

Ian Tullett was left fuming with the force and has lodged an official complaint and was scared for his life when thugs ambushed his daughter’s party at the end of the evening.

He dialled 999 in terror as guests were leaving the Parochial Hall in Ingram Road, Rainham, and claims he did not get the response he needed.

Mr Tullett, of Parkfield Road, Rainham, said: "There was only about 20 of us left and we were making our way outside, when a man on a moped and another on foot appeared from nowhere and started threatening the guests with combat knives.

"We didn’t know if they were going to rob or stab us – they were very agitated."

The guests ran back into the hall and locked themselves inside and dialled 999.

"It was very scary, most of the children and women were crying and the thugs were banging on the door trying to get in," Mr Tullett added.

The guests waited for a patrol car to arrive, but about 10 minutes later got a call from Kent Police asking for directions to the venue. Eventually, the thugs gave up trying to get into the hall.

Three male guests later ventured outside to see if they were gone. When they realised the coast was clear, the other guests left the hall – and were greeted by the police, who asked if they were all okay, before driving off.

Since the terrifying incident on Saturday, February 4, he has made a formal complaint to the chief constable of Kent Police, Mike Fuller.

He added: "Seeing as there was a murder in Gillingham the night before, I can’t understand why two thugs brandishing knives at us were not treated as a serious emergency."

Acting Insp Geoff Payne said: "Kent Police is investigating the incident reported by Mr Tullett and we have spoken to him about the way the matter was dealt with. We are very sorry for the distress caused."