PCs Neil Bowdery, left, and Maurice Leigh at court over the death of Colin Holt. Pictures: Mike Gunnill

Two police officers have appeared in court today in connection with the death of a mentally-ill Medway man two years ago.

Colin Holt, 52, died his flat in Harbledown Manor, Goudhurst Road, Twydall, in August 2010.

He died of positional asphyxia – when someone's position prevents them from breathing – while he was allegedly being detained.

PC Maurice Leigh, 54, and PC Neil Bowdery, 29, have been charged with willfully neglecting to perform duty while holding a position of public office.

Mr Holt had been sectioned under the Mental Health Act, but left Medway Maritime Hospital. Officers had gone to his home to take him back to the site in Gillingham.

The Crown Prosecution Service authorised the Independent Police Complaints Commission to summons the officers responsible for his restraint to court.

Colin Holt died at home in Goudhurst Road, Twydall

They appeared at Maidstone Magistrates' Court this morning, when the case against them was adjourned and sent to crown court.

Neither Leigh or Bowdery, whose addresses were given as Kent Police headquarters in Maidstone, entered pleas.

Both are expected to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday, October 26.

Both officers have been suspended from duty.