The man accused of murdering Ramsgate dad Archie Ward is expected to go on trial next year.
John Buchanan, of St John’s Crescent, Ramsgate, was charged with murder following the death of former Hereson student and Sunday League football player Mr Ward on Sunday.
Mr Buchanan, 21, appeared at Maidstone Crown Court via video link today (June 22).
The trial has been set for January 8 with a pre-trial hearing on July 18.
Mr Ward, 40, died after suffering a single stab wound to his thigh during an altercation in St Johns Crescent.
He had driven to nearby Bush Avenue but did not survive the injury.
A JustGiving page set up to help his family with funeral costs has now reached a staggering £16,750, way above the £5,000 target, in less than two days.
A memorial match will also be held at Ramsgate FC next month to raise more funds. A statement on the club’s website says: “Archie was a centre-forward who used to cause defences all sorts of problems, and was a prominent figure with both Dolphin FC and Cherry Orchard FC.
“He also played for Ramsgate’s Reserves under Micky Morgan in 2002, a squad that was filled with up and coming local talent (many of who are still playing locally 15 years later).
A memorial game is planned for 30 July at Southwood, 10.30am kickoff, which is being organised by the Thanet Sunday League, to celebrate Archie’s life on and off the pitch and to raise funds for his family.”