A 24-year-old man denied attempting to murder a soldier when appeared before a judge at Maidstone Crown Court.

Aaron Campbell admitted causing Lee Harris grievous bodily harm with intent, but the prosecution said the plea was not accepted and there would have to be a trial.

Judge Warwick McKinnon set a date for January 23 next year.

Campbell is alleged to have attacked 22-year-old Mr Harris, who was based at Brompton Barracks, Gillingham, with a hammer.

The alleged incident happened at Campbell’s home in Madden Avenue, Davis Estate, Chatham, in the early hours of June 5.

The victim suffered life-threatening injuries, but Michael Haynes, defending, said he was now making a good recovery.

Campbell was remanded in custody.