A Thanet taxi driver has appeared in court accused of two counts of rape.

David Stirrups, of Whitfield Avenue, Ramsgate, was allegedly on duty when the offences took place.

The 53-year-old, from Broadstairs, was remanded in custody and will go before Canterbury Crown Court again on August 9.

He was charged following allegations of rape made by the friend of a woman aged in her 30s.

She contacted police on May 10 to tell officers about the incident just before midnight two days earlier.

Police arrested Stirrups at his home the following morning.

He has also been charged with one count of indecent assault in connection with an incident in Ramsgate on April 10.

Det Insp Trevor Fleming said: "Our investigations into these incidents and Stirrups continue.

"If anyone has any information they think may help us, please come forward.

"All calls will be treated in the strictest confidence. Major crime officers can be contacted on 01303 289 600."