The former treasurer of Hilltop Primary School’s Parent, Teacher Association has appeared in court accused of stealing more than £42,000 from funds.

Kevin Carter, 50, appeared before magistrates in Medway yesterday after being charged with theft by employee.

Carter, of The Chimes, Hoo, is accused of stealing £42,611.82 from the PTA coffers over a two year period.

It is alleged he stole the cash between January 2011 and January 2013.

Carter did not enter any pleas in relation to the charges and magistrates declined jurisdiction of the matter and sent it to the crown court to be dealt with.

Carter will next appear at Maidstone Crown Court, on Friday, August 15.