A KENT businessman has appeared at Maidstone Crown Court accused of attempting to murder his wife.

At the brief hearing, Phillip Cowell, a property developer who jointly owns the Yew and Ewe pub in the village of Brookland, Romney Marsh, was shown on a TV link with Elmley Prison.

The 43-year-old is alleged to have tried to kill his wife, Faith, at their home, Old Cheyne Court, Old Romney, on July 4. She suffered injuries and was taken to a London hospital for surgery.

Cowell was remanded in custody until September 30 when he is expected to enter a plea to the charge.

Ashford magistrates had previously been told that Cowell’s family were prepared to stand bail of £700,000.