A man accused of killing a work colleague at a rubbish tip in Tunbridge Wells appeared at Maidstone Crown Court today.

David Squelch did not have a solicitor or barrister representing him as legal aid had not yet been granted.

The 48-year-old was charged with murder after father James Wallington, 44, suffered stab wounds at Cory Environmental Ltd recycling centre in North Farm Lane on Monday, March 9.

Squelch, of Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, and Mr Wallington were believed to have shared a lift to work on the morning of the alleged offence.

Judge Jeremy Carey said Squelch would be getting legal aid soon and the case would officially be “sent” by magistrates for a preliminary hearing on March 27.

A plea will then be entered on May 27. The judge said a likely trial date was towards the end of August or early September.

Wearing a dark T-shirt, Squelch sat at a desk at Elmley Prison, Sheppey, for the TV link hearing with the court.

He spoke only to be identified and indicate he understood what was taking place.

Judge Carey said although a bail application was not made it had to be considered. But Squelch was remanded in custody.