A 62-year-old man denied murdering an elderly neighbour in an alleged hammer attack when he appeared at Maidstone Crown Court.

Anthony Goodwin is accused of killing Henry Messenger in Crispin Close, Faversham, where they both lived, on Friday, May 19.

Mr Messenger, 75, was said to have died after sustaining 18 blows.

Paul Lamb, defending, had requested that bearded Goodwin should not enter his plea.

But Judge Jeremy Carey insisted: “There should be arraignment. We need to know where this case is going. We must proceed with this case.”

Mr Lamb said there had been a history of mental health issues. Goodwin, he added, had the wrong medication, which had caused concern.

He was remanded in custody and will stand trial on October 30. It is expected to last seven to 10 days.