An accused County Lines drug dealer appeared in the dock at Maidstone Crown Court today behind a glass screen wearing a mask, gloves and a scarf over his head.

Brandon Gnamien, from London, told Judge Philip Statman: "Can I apologise. I mean no disrespect but I heard there is Coronavirus in Maidstone!"

The 23-year-old - who is accused of being involved in the County Lines supply of heroin and cocaine - was asked to confirm his name and date of birth.

Judge Statman gave him permission to wear the blue gloves and face mask but asked him to remove the scarf.

He told him he could wear the mask and gloves if it made him feel comfortable.

The case was adjourned for two weeks and Gnamien was returned to HMP Elmley.

After the hearing the judge quipped: "There is a first for everything. But I won't be going to my chambers to look for a mask."

For information on how we can report on court proceedings, click here.

To get the latest updates in ongoing cases, police appeals and criminals put behind bars, click here.