A FORMER Dymchurch couple will appear in court tomorrow charged with a catalogue of child sex offences.

John and Lynne Stageman will appear at Maidstone Crown Court for a plea and directions hearing.

The couple, who once ran The Arcade gift shop in Dymchurch High Street, were arrested on January 20, 2000, accused of serious sexual offences against children.

Mr Stageman, 60, faces charges including rape, unlawful sex with a girl under 16, and indecent assault on a girl under 14. His wife, who is 56 and a former parish councillor, is charged with aiding and abetting rape.