The man accused of the murder of former Chatham pub landlady Julie Butler, has had his trial date fixed for next month.

David Kirsch, of Western Road, Aldershot, is also charged with sexual penetration of a corpse, on two counts.

He has already pleaded not guilty to the three charges.

His trial will begin at Winchester Crown Court, on Tuesday, May 6.

Ms Butler, 49, ran the Little Crown pub, in Chatham High Street, until three years ago, when she moved out of the area.

She had previously worked at the White Lion pub, also in Chatham High Street.

Her body was discovered on October 10 last year at the Imperial Standard pub, Aldershot, where she worked.