A MAN accused of murdering father-of-two Roy Rossiter has made his first crown court appearance.

Kieron Barnes, 23, spoke only to confirm his name as he stood in the dock for a preliminary hearing.

He is due to return to Maidstone Crown Court on Monday, March 17 for a plea and directions hearing, when it is anticipated that a date will be arranged for his trial.

Mr Rossiter died on Christmas Eve following an attack in Clyde Street, Sheerness, on Sunday, December 22.

Barnes, of no fixed address, remains in custody to await his next appearance.