A pub landlord appeared at Maidstone Crown Court today accused of attempting to murder a grandad.

Ralph Latchana, licensee of the Maiden’s Head in Wincheap, Canterbury, is alleged to have knifed 65-year-old Alexander Mackay several times on September 21.

Latchana, 61, is also alleged to have crashed his Mercedes car into digger driver Mr Mackay’s van during the early morning incident in Wincheap.

Christopher May, prosecuting, said Mr Mackay suffered “grave” injuries from wounds to his abdomen, causing a collapsed lung and piercing a kidney.

He said Mr Mackay remains in intensive care in hospital.

Dressed in a grey top and taking notes, Latchana appeared by TV link from Elmley Prison, Sheppey.

Judge Philip Statman remanded Latchana in custody until December 7, when he will enter a plea. A provisional trial date has been set for March 11 next year.

An application by Latchana to change his legal representation was refused.