A MAN has appeared before magistrates at Dartford accused of three counts of rape. Phillip Allen, 41, whose address was given as Page Close, Bean, near Dartford, is also charged with assault causing actual bodily harm.

It is alleged that Mr Allen committed the offences between January 1, 1999, and February 28 this year, and they involved one female.

Mr Allen was released on conditional bail. No pleas were entered. He will next appear before Maidstone Crown Court at a date to be fixed.