Coach and founder of Canterbury Fencing Club, Paul Romang has appeared before magistrates charged with 22 offences of fraud totalling £39,000.

He is alleged to have abused a position of trust while acting as treasurer for the St George Abadan Chapter of the Freemasons in Chatham.

Romang, 59, of Grange Way, Broadstairs, did not enter a plea when he appeared before Thanet Magistrates on Friday and his case was adjourned until May 27.