A man has been charged over an attack in a Canterbury beauty spot that has left a homeless man fighting for his life.

Peter Clement, who is also homeless, appeared before city magistrates today accused of causing grievous bodily harm.

The 50-year-old was remanded in custody at this morning's hearing.

It comes as a 45-year-old man remains in a critical condition in hospital after being badly beaten in Dane John Gardens on Tuesday evening.

Kent Police said he has undergone two operations for serious head injuries at King's College Hospital, in London.

The injured man was found when officers were called at just before 7pm to reports of a fight in the park.

He was taken to the William Harvey Hospital, in Ashford, and later transferred to King's College.

Police sealed off an area of the park and officers remained at the scene yesterday morning.

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Lib Dem Cllr Nick Eden-Green, who lives in the Dane John, said: "The alcoholics or street drinkers are sometimes a problem.

“Most of the time they just drink or keep to themselves, but there are occasions when fights break out or there are instances of aggressive begging.

"I don't believe this is anything worse than any other part of the city, though, but it would be nice if it did not happen at all.

"And sometimes we are talking about people with mental health problems or other associated issues."

Witnesses are urged to phone Kent Police on 101, giving reference 23-1697.

Police in Dane John Gardens, Canterbury. Video: Lowri Stafford