A Labour general election candidate looks set to stand trial after appearing in court this morning over drink-driving accusations.

Kathryn Smith, who failed to win the Conservative seat of Gravesham, shook in the dock before Dartford magistrates.

The 50-year-old, of Cambridge Avenue, Welling, spoke in a quiet voice only to confirm her name and address.

Her solicitor told the court ashen-faced Smith would be pleading not guilty to the charge of driving at double the legal alcohol limit.

Smith was arrested by police after crashing her car into a roundabout in Bob Dunn Way, Dartford, just days before voters went to the polls in May.

She was suspended by the Labour party pending the outcome of her case, which is due back before magistrates on August 5.

Smith is an ex-director of the Cooperative Bank and former leader and deputy mayor of Bexley council.