A man has appeared in court, charged with beating someone with a baseball bat before setting fire to their room.

Will Crump, 35, is accused of kicking, punching and attacking a person with the sports equipment, before committing arson.

Police, fire engines and paramedics attended the scene of the incident at Frencham Close, Canterbury, on December 11, 2023.

Firefighters put out the flames and evacuated residents from the building. The victim was taken to hospital to be treated for head injuries and smoke inhalation.

The following day police arrested Crump, who was charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and arson with intent to endanger life.

Crump, of Frencham Close, Canterbury, appeared before Folkestone Magistrate’s Court on 13 December and was remanded in custody.

He is due to re-appear before Canterbury Crown Court on Monday.

A police spokesperson added that a further man was arrested in connection with the incident and later bailed pending further enquiries.

The victim has since been discharged from hospital.