The vehicle’s windscreen was shattered as a result of the incident, which happened at around 4.15pm on Sunday 21 January 2024, near the junction for Wrotham Heath.

It is reported the unknown object was thrown as the driver was passing under a bridge for the A227, Borough Green Road, which runs directly above the M26. Patrols immediately attended but were unable to identify any suspects.

Detective Sergeant Graham Norman said: ‘Throwing anything at a moving vehicle is reckless and malicious, and to throw something from a bridge at a moving vehicle could easily kill someone. In this instance, the victim was travelling with two young children who no doubt would have been terrified as their car was forced to pull onto the hard shoulder.

Fortunately, no one was injured but we would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has any other information. The driver reported seeing a male on the bridge described as tall, slim and possibly with brown hair. He was wearing a green and brown parka-style jacket, with fur around the hood.’

Anyone with dashcam footage or information which may assist the investigation is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/11893/24.