A man has denied murdering pensioner Roy Blackman in a burglary at his home in Biddenden.

Mark Love entered the plea at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday and will now stand trial on September 5.

The 37-year-old, of Frittenden Road, Staplehurst, is accused of killing Mr Blackman, who was 73, at his house in Headcorn Road - opposite Chart Hills Golf Club - between March 18 and 22.

His body was found on Monday, March 21. He was bludgeoned to death.

Love also denied aggravated burglary at a house in Ewhurst Lane, Northiam, Rye, east Sussex, on February 21.

He is alleged to have entered the home while armed with a hammer and taser and stolen cash, two shotguns, 300 cartridges, a credit card, four trophies, a watch, a Toyota Hilux car, a pair of binoculars, four pigeon magnets, a quantity of pigeon cradles and four jackets.

Love, who spoke only to be identified, was remanded in custody.