A man accused of murdering a pensioner in a quiet cul-de-sac where they both lived made his first appearance at Maidstone Crown Court today.

Anthony Goodwin, 62, was charged with killing 75-year-old Henry Messenger after his body was found in Crispin Close in Faversham on Friday.

Prosecutor Kathryn Hirst said a post-mortem examination was held yesterday and there were only preliminary results about Mr Messenger’s death.

Goodwin, of Crispin Close, spoke only to be identified and sat with his arms folded for the short appearance by video link between Elmley Prison and Maidstone Crown Court.

Judge Jeremy Carey ordered that Goodwin be produced at court on July 18 to enter a plea. A trial date was set for October 30.

Paul Lamb, defending, said there was no application for bail and Goodwin was remanded in custody.