A 36-year-old man accused of a sex attack on a woman eight years ago made a brief appearance at Maidstone Crown Court via a TV link from Elmley Prison, Sheppey.

Wayne Adams, 36, is accused of rape and an attempt to choke, suffocate or strangle in order to commit an indictable offence, on August 11 1996.

The alleged victim had been walking along Edwin Road, Rainham, at the time.

Adams, of Lyminge Close, Gillingham, is expected to enter a plea to the charges when he returns to court on February 24. He was remanded in custody.