A former chairman of Sittingbourne Christmas Lights Association is facing trial for serious sex offences.

James Mitchell denied four charges of rape between June 2004 and June 2011.

The 60-year-old, formerly of Invicta Road, Sheerness, will stand trial on September 18.

He appeared at Maidstone Crown Court via TV link with HMP Albany on the Isle of Wight.

A pre-trial review will be held on August 4. He will again appear by video link after he told Judge Philip Statman he was suffering from a heart condition.

Sittingbourne Lights Association supports the installation of festive lights in the town’s High Street and is run by volunteer committee members.

Mitchell joined as a committee member in February 2008 and was appointed chairman a year later.