KENT boxer Mehrdud Takalobigashi made a brief appearance at Canterbury Crown Court on Monday in relation to a conspiracy allegation.

The 31-year-old, who now lives in Grange Court, Upper Park, Loughton, appeared with his wife Sarah, 30, of Gainsborough Avenue, Margate, who faces a similar allegation.

Both were bailed to return to the same court on April 30 when it is expected that charges will be put.

Boxer Takalobigashi, known as Takaloo, won the WBU world welterweight title in May last year and is well known in Thanet, which named him an ambassador last year.

He was the first recipient of an award for exceptional achievement set up by district council chairman Cllr Jeffery Kirkpatrick.

Speaking at the time, he said: "I am proud of Margate and Thanet. When I step into the ring I am fighting for myself, my family and supporters, and the area that has backed me throughout my career."

He added: "Most people used to identify Margate with Dreamland, now they have me as well."