A driver who left a key embedded in a man's skull after an incident on a petrol station forecourt could be facing a retrial.

Supermarket worker Stephen Sinclair admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm but denied causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

A jury at Maidstone Crown Court could not agree on a verdict on the more serious charge and was discharged.

Thomas Morgan had to be taken to London's King's College Hospital to have the key removed from his temple above his right eye after the incident at a service station on the M20 near Maidstone on March 4 last year.

Judge David Griffith-Jones QC gave the prosecution until next Wednesday April 4 to decide whether there should be a retrial.

Sinclair, 48, of Wood Cottage Lane, Folkestone, was granted bail.