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Flowers left for Anthony Armstrong following 'street attack' in Folkestone

12:37, 14 October 2022

updated: 16:55, 14 October 2022

Flowers have appeared at a crime scene as mourners pay their dues to a man who died following a reported street attack.

Anthony Armstrong was fatally injured after the alleged assault in New Street, Folkestone, at 1.15pm on Thursday, October 6.

A floral tribute has been placed at the scene of a fatal 'street attack' in Folkestone
A floral tribute has been placed at the scene of a fatal 'street attack' in Folkestone

He was air-lifted to a specialist London hospital in a critical condition but later died.

Today, a single autumnal bouquet of unmarked flowers appeared at the roadside, attached to a property meters from where the alleged assault unfolded.

Mark Green, of East Cliff and Ruben Smith, of Foord Road South, Folkestone, were originally charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

But after Mr Armstrong died Green, 41 and Smith, 18, will likely be charged with murder or manslaughter, a court heard earlier this week.

Following their arrest Green was remanded in custody and Smith was granted bail at Folkestone Magistrate’s Court on Saturday October 8.

But Judge Simon James ruled at Canterbury Crown Court on Monday Smith should also be held on remand now the defendants will “likely be charged with murder.”

A hearing was heard at Canterbury Crown Court earlier this week
A hearing was heard at Canterbury Crown Court earlier this week

News of Mr Armstrong's death surfaced during an application to rescind Smith’s bail conditions, where Ronnie Manek, defending, argued Smith should remain on conditional bail.

But Judge Simon James said: “I’m informed that, regrettably, Mr Armstrong has died having never gained consciousness - bail is refused.”

Officers attended the scene last week along with South East Coast Ambulance Service and an air ambulance following the attack.

Kent Police has been asked to confirm whether the Crown Prosecution Service has authorised a charge.

Speaking shortly after the alleged assault, a Kent Police spokesman said: "Detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate are continuing to urge anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam footage of an altercation in New Street, or who has any other information to call 01843 222273, quoting reference 46/193708/22.

"You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form on their website."

The court heard the trial will likely be heard at Canterbury Crown Court on April 6 before Judge James.

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