A councillor who claims he was helping police deal with a domestic dispute when he was arrested for allegedly carrying a telescopic truncheon has opted to be tried by jury.

Cllr Stephen Beerling (Lib Dem), who represents Fant ward on Maidstone council, appeared before magistrates this morning.

Keith Middleton, defending, told the court that the charge related to an incident that happened in the flats where Beerling lives in Peel Street, Maidstone.

He said Beerling called police to the disturbance on Wednesday, March 19.

Beerling was later arrested and charged with possessing an offensive weapon.

When asked where he would like to face trial, Beerling said he wished to be tried by jury at crown court.

He will appear at the magistrates’ court again on Friday, May 30, when a crown court date will be set. He remains on unconditional bail.