A teenager will face trial next year after a father died following an incident outside a town centre pub.

John Gibbs, 18, was arrested and charged with causing grievous bodily harm following a bust-up near the Hare and Hounds pub in Lower Boxley Road, Maidstone.

But Maidstone Crown Court heard further charges may be brought after the death of 47-year-old Andrew Looseley, from Chatham.

Gibbs, of Nickley Wood, Ashford, appeared by prison video link at Elmley but was not asked to enter any pleas.

Judge Philip Statman told members of Gibbs' family, who packed the court, that because of the dispute between defence barristers and the government no counsel has yet been appointed.

Solicitor Joseph Ring appeared by video to give legal advice to the teenager.

No application for bail was made and Gibbs was remanded into custody until Friday, December 16, when he will enter his pleas.

Prosecutor Ian Hope said the trial, which is scheduled for February 16 next year, is expected to last up to seven days.

Kent Police were called to the Hare and Hounds shortly after 8.35pm on Saturday, August 20, when Mr Looseley was taken to a London hospital after sustaining serious injuries.

He died of his injuries days later on Wednesday, August 24.

His family, friends and fellow punters paid tribute to him following his death.