A suspect is alleged to have burgled and attempted to burgle nine properties across Gravesend before fleeing across the town and setting fire to his car.

John Steadman is also alleged to have had an altercation with the occupant of one property in Old Road East, while armed with a plank of wood, during the burglary spree from late morning to early afternoon on Wednesday.

Fifteen charges have been authorised against the Dartford man, who is accused of targetting properties in Thong Lane, Lower Higham Road and Old Road East, and was arrested following a pursuit across Gravesend.

He is said to have travelled to the scene of some of the burglaries in a Ford Fiesta, which was set alight after it collided with some wheelie bins, also in Old Road East.

Following a search of Gravesend, which was assisted by the National Police Air Service, Mr Steadman was identified as a suspect and detained in Donald Biggs Drive.

While in custody, he is said to have assaulted a Kent Police PCSO and caused damage to a police van.

The 27-year-old, of Maple Road, has since been charged with five counts of burglary, four counts of attempted burglary, arson, assaulting an emergency services worker, possessing an offensive weapon, criminal damage and driving without a licence or insurance.

He appeared for a remand hearing at Medway Magistrates’ Court today and has been remanded in custody to attend Maidstone Crown Court on Friday September 10.

Read more: all the latest news from Gravesend.