A pensioner accused of murdering his wife in an alleged failed suicide pact has appeared in court.

Wearing a grey T-shirt, Michael Packman, 66, spoke only to be identified during the brief hearing at Maidstone Crown Court this morning - via TV link with Elmley Prison.

Stephanie Packman’s body was found at their home in Hurst Lane, Kemsley, Sittingbourne, in the early hours of Tuesday, July 31.

Mrs Packman, 64, suffered from dementia and had previously been living in a care home. She was found with a wound to her neck.

Her husband was treated at a London hospital for a wound to his abdomen.

Packman, who was remanded in custody, will enter a plea on November 30.

Judge Adele Williams set a provisional trial date for January 28 next year.

The judge ordered a full psychiatric report.