A man accused of murdering his father in a double stabbing has appeared at court.

Patrick Murphy was charged with murder after an attack which left his 54-year-old father, Joe, dead and his 34-year-old brother, Mark, seriously injured.

The 29-year-old is also charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of three knives in a public place.

During the attack Mark is believed to have suffered knife wounds to his throat, upper arm and hand. He was flown to King’s College Hospital in London.

Forensic officers remained at the scene of the attack, in Hectorage Road, for several days after.

A white tent was erected outside the property involved and the road was closed to through traffic.

Murphy, who has been in custody since the incident in May, appeared for a plea and case management hearing at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday.

The Hectorage Road resident, who was dressed in a grey tracksuit, spoke only to confirm his name and address via video link from HMP Elmley in Sheppey.

He did not enter a plea as essential psychiatric and psychological reports had not been completed.

The case was adjourned until Friday, October 2 at the same court.

A provisional trial date was set for January 11.

If it takes place it is expected to last up to three weeks and involve dozens of witnesses.