A man accused of murdering Ramsgate dad Archie Ward has pleaded not guilty to the charge at a pre-trial hearing.
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 last month.
Mr Buchanan, 21, appeared at Canterbury Crown Court via video link this morning (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 memorial match will be held at Ramsgate FC this month.
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).
The memorial game is planned for 30 July at Southwood, 10.30am kick-off, 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.”
Mr Buchanan’s trial has been set for January 8.