A teenager accused of murdering an elderly man whose body was found at stables where he worked made his first appearance at Maidstone Crown Court today.

Trevor Hadlow was found in his caravan at Capstone Stud Farm in Capstone Road, Gillingham, on Tuesday, November 22 after police were called there in the morning.

The 17-year-old, from Sheppey, is charged with murdering Mr Hadlow, 70, on Sunday, November 20 and stealing a trailer belonging to Vanda Cochrane the same day.

He is also charged with attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent to traffic warden David Drury on July 8 and dangerous driving in a Vauxhall Omega car in High Street, Eastchurch, the same day.

Wearing a green sweatshirt, the teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, spoke only to be identified at the brief hearing.

A further hearing will be held on February 20. Judge Philip Statman set a preliminary trial date for April 18.

The teenager was remanded in custody but his lawyer, Christopher Surtees-Jones, will make a bail application later this morning.

Mr Hadlow’s family said in a statement: “Trevor was quite a character, who enjoyed the outdoor life. He was always willing to help out friends and neighbours. He will be missed by many.”

Mr Hadlow had worked at the stables for about eight or nine years and lived in the caravan on the site.