A man has denied beating and attempting to sexually assault a woman near a riverside path.

Jack Smith, 23, formerly of St Stephen's Road, Canterbury, allegedly attacked the woman as she walked by the River Stour in the early morning.

The reported assault happened in Canterbury’s Kingsmead Road area in December, a court heard.

Following his arrest on December 19, Smith denied the allegation. He will appear for trial at Canterbury Crown Court on July 13.

Defence barrister Andrew Forsyth explained Smith, more recently of Raymond Fuller Way in Ashford, is expected to argue “mistaken identity and innocent DNA contamination”.

Judge Simon James told Smith: “You will be remanded into custody. You will need to be in court for a pre-trial hearing on July 6 to make sure there are no slips before the trial on July 13.”

Wearing a grey sweater Smith, who remained placid appearing via video-link from HMP Elmley on the Isle of Sheppey, spoke only to confirm his name and indicated his future attendance.

He will face trial on two charges at the same court after pleading not guilty to both today. They are intent to commit a sexual offence and causing Actual Bodily Harm against the alleged victim, who, for legal reasons, must remain anonymous.

Prosecutor Peter Forbes is expected to bring the case on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service.

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