A man accused of murdering a father-of-two with a broken bottle is likely to claim self-defence, a judge has been told.

Richard McAuley, 23, appeared at Maidstone Crown Court today charged with the murder of 44-year-old Mark Miles.

Mr Miles suffered fatal injuries at a flat in Sandhurst Place, Margate on Saturday and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The property iwas cordoned off while police and forensics specialists carried out their investigations.

McAuley was arrested and charged with murder the following day.

Appearing in the dock this morning dressed in a prison-issue grey tracksuit, he spoke only once to confirm his name.

Judge David Griffith-Jones QC was told that there was to be no application for bail and McAuley was remanded in custody until the next hearing on November 15, when he is expected to formerly enter his plea to the murder charge.

Prosecution Simon Tayler told the court a date of March 30 has been pencilled in for a trial at the same court. It is expected to take five days.

Defence barrister Paul Hogben told the hearing McCauley, of Northdown Road, Cliftonville, is likely to claim he acted in self-defence.

A fundraising page has now been set up for the family of Mr Miles.

While tributes have also been posted online.

One friend said: "You were one of the best, if not the best.

"It was a pleasure knowing you and your family helped me in the past. Will see you on the other side."

Another described his death as a "pointless loss of life"

Mr Miles was also described as a "sound friend" and "all round good man".

Police at the scene on Saturday. Video: UKNIP/KMG

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