Two men accused of murdering Pokemon Go fan Carl Gregory at a Broadstairs shopping centre appeared at Maidstone Crown Court today.

John Dickson, 27, and 20-year-old Christopher Pollard sat wide apart in the dock and spoke only to be identified at the brief hearing.

They are alleged to have killed Mr Gregory in a car park near Westwood Cross on Tuesday, October 4.

He suffered fatal injuries at The Link shopping centre. Police and ambulance crews were called to the scene just after 10pm, but he his life could not be saved.

Prosecutor Ahmed Hossain said Mr Gregory suffered choking and kicks while on the ground before becoming unconscious and dying.

There were “elements of vulnerability”, he said, because Mr Gregory had Asperger’s syndrome.

Not guilty pleas were indicated by lawyers for Dickson, of Northdown Road, Cliftonville, and Pollard, of Brimstone Hill, Meopham, and Judge Jeremy Carey set a trial date for March 6 next year.

Kate Hunter, for Pollard, said a bail application would be made on his behalf.

Dickson and Pollard were remanded in custody and will return to court to enter pleas on December 20.

Mr Gregory’s grieving family have paid tribute to a loving son, grandson and brother.

He was said to have loved Pokémon Go, but it was stressed that the popular game played no part in his death.

The family said in a statement: “Carl was a loving son, brother and grandson who was a typical 20-year-old who enjoyed gaming, modern technology and Pokémon Go.

“We would like to reiterate that contrary to media reports, Pokémon Go cannot be attributed to his death.

“Carl will be greatly missed by family and friends and we are still in a position where we are trying to come to terms with his death, and as such we would request some privacy at this difficult time.”