A 25-year-old man accused of killing his ex-girlfriend in a knife attack at the Dockside Outlet shopping centre in Medway appeared at Maidstone Crown Court today.

Bearded Joshua Stimpson, of High Street, Wouldham, near Rochester, spoke only to be identified on a video link with Elmley Prison, Sheppey.

Stimpson is charged with murdering Molly McLaren, 23, from Cobham, near Gravesend, in the shopping centre car park in Chatham last Thursday. He was arrested at the scene.

The alleged attack happened just after 11am. The car park was cordoned off while forensic officers inspected the area.

Stimpson will next appear on September 18 to enter a plea. Judge Adele Williams set a trial date for January 22 next year.

The court was packed with family and friends of Molly for the brief hearing.

He was remanded in custody.

The case has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission, which will look into Miss McLaren’s contact with officers before her death.

A police spokesman said: “The victim and the suspect were known to each other and enquiries into the incident remain ongoing.

“As part of on-going enquires, any previous reports made by the victim to Kent Police regarding the suspect will form part of the murder investigation.

“Kent Police has referred the matter to the Independent Police Complaints Commission and they will determine whether there is a requirement for them to investigate.”

Family and friends of Molly have set up a charity in her name to support people with eating disorders.