A man accused of trying to kill a woman by giving her poison will stand trial in the summer.

Christopher Connolly denied attempting to murder Denise Smith and administering a poison or noxious substance so as to endanger life between December 21 last year – his birthday – and January 3.

The charges relate to an incident on January 3 in Rochester when Miss Smith was alleged to have been poisoned with prescription medicine.

Connolly, of Chelmar Road, Chatham, appeared at Maidstone Crown Court on Tuesday by TV link with Elmley Prison.

The bearded 28-year-old was remanded in custody and will stand trial on July 1.