A well known pub landlord has appeared in court accused of causing actual bodily harm to a man.

Sanjay Raval, 50, pictured, appeared before magistrates in Medway on Tuesday, June 26, after being charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Raval, who has run the City Wall Wine Bar for the the past 20 years, is accused of injuring Jake Swaislane, during the early hours of New Year's Day in Rochester.

It is alleged Raval, of Almond Grove, Hempstead, grabbed Mr Swaislane by the neck in the choke position until he passed out and fell to the floor sustaining injuries to his face.

Raval, who also managed the Rising Sun, in Delce Road, Rochester, earlier this year and employs about 30 people, denied the allegation.

While in the dock Raval, through his solicitor, told magistrates he wanted his trial to be heard at crown court.

As a result, the case was adjourned and sent to Maidstone Crown Court to be dealt with.

Raval is next due to appear there on Tuesday, July 24 and he was granted bail until then.