A youth appeared in court today charged with causing the deaths of an elderly woman and her daughter by dangerous driving in Strood.

Jamie Smith, 18, of Alamein Avenue, Chatham, is alleged to have killed 84-year-old Elsie Blades and 60-year-old Marilyn Harlihy as they crossed Station Road on July 26 last year.

Smith, who was the driver of a Seat Ibiza car, spoke only to confirm his name during the brief preliminary hearing at Maidstone Crown Court.

He was released on bail until his next court appearance on May 17.