A man who was badly burned in an explosion at a Sittingbourne house has appeared at Maidstone Crown Court on a charge of arson with intent to endanger life.

Alisdair Gray, 38, was airlifted to hospital by Kent Air Ambulance after the blaze erupted in Recreation Way, Kemsley, on April 28.

The blast blew out the outside walls of the house and caused major damage to the adjoining property. Firemen were unable to rescue a dog.

Judge James O'Mahony was told the prosecution had not objected to bail when Gray, of Minterne Avenue, Sittingbourne, appeared at Maidstone magistrates court on August 22.

Conditional bail was continued and he will return to court on October 30 to enter a plea to the charge.

Gray was bailed to an address in Rushenden Road, Queenborough, and his ex-partner was now said to be living in Gravesend.