A catholic priest accused of knocking down a four-year-old child has appeared in court.

The Rev Christopher Lindlar, 63, of St Richards Road, Deal, denies hitting the girl with his vehicle close to St Mary's Primary School on December 14, 2017.

The former rector of St Andrew’s Church in Deal has been charged with driving without due care and attention.

He appeared at Margate Magistrates Court today where a trial was expected to conclude.

But it was adjourned when a defence witness did not arrive. A further date is yet to be confirmed.

Darren and Agnieszka Smith, the parents of victim who is now five, were in attendance.

They previously gave evidence on February 26, claiming their daughter was hit by the clergyman when driving his Renault Clio across a pavement into a car park.

They said she suffered bruising to her leg and received hospital treatment.

Chairman of the magistrates Mr Laurence Gallagher apologised to the girl's parents for the delay in proceedings and released Rev Lindlar on unconditional bail.

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