Four men accused of storming a traveller site wearing balaclavas and brandishing guns have appeared in court.

Jheryl Long, John Smillie, Glenn Kenny and Faisal Issah are alleged to have been part of a gang of more than 20 who headed down from London in a convoy of four cars in April last year.

Maidstone Crown Court previously heard how the group raided Wheat Gratten Stable Yards in remote Forstal Road, near Lenham, intent on stealing large sums of money. They terrorised families before being chased away.

Judge Julian Smith heard Kenny, 24 and of Suffolk had already admitted conspiracy to rob, making him the tenth man to be convicted in connection with the raid. He had denied possession of a firearm and the charge will lie on file. Sentencing was adjourned.

Smillie, 24 and of Walthamstow, Long, 22 and of no fixed address, and Issah, 23 and of Tottenham, all deny both charges and will stand trial in September. Kieon Barker, 22, and 29-year-old Vincent Stickings, both of London, are also awaiting trial.

Nine men have been jailed for lengthy periods for their part in the robbery.