THE two men charged with murdering a 24-year-old man, Sri Lankan Shankar Kathirgamanathan, have appeared in court at Ashford.

Tony Pile, 18, of Bailey's Field, South Ashford, and James Rossiter, 22, of Loudon Way, Ashford, spoke only to confirm their name, age and address during the brief hearing.

No bail applications were made and the case was sent to Maidstone Crown Court. Both men were remanded in custody until Monday, May 17.

Mr Kathirgamanathan was pronounced dead at the William Harvey Hospital last Thursday, two weeks after be was attacked on a footbridge in Ashford.

Witnesses, or anyone with information, is asked to telephone police on 01233 619045 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.