A 21-year-old man accused of murder after an alleged stabbing at a barbecue made his first appearance at crown court today

John Buchanan is accused of killing Michael Ward, who was 40, in St John’s Crescent, Ramsgate, on Sunday, June 18.

After suffering a wound to his thigh, Mr Ward - known as Archie - drove to Bush Avenue in Ramsgate, where he got out of the car and collapsed in the street.

Police and ambulance crews were called at 5pm, but Mr Ward died at the scene.

Wearing a blue T-shirt, bearded Buchanan, of St John’s Crescent, spoke only to be identified when he appeared by video link between Elmley Prison and Maidstone Crown Court.

Judge Jeremy Carey transferred the case to Judge Heather Norton, who has recently been granted the ability to try murders at Canterbury Crown Court.

Buchanan will appear there on July 18 to enter a plea. A trial date was set for January 8 next year.

He was remanded in custody but his lawyer Philip Rowley said a bail application would be made in the near future.

Floral tributes and football shirts have been left at the scene of the incident.

Meanwhile, more than £10,000 has been raised online by well-wishers to pay for Mr Ward's funeral.

Detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate want to hear from any witnesses.

Call the appeal line on 01843 222289 quoting reference ZY/25993/17, or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555111.