Four teenagers, accused of being involved in the death of a man in Chatham, have walked free from court.

The group had been facing a month-long trial for manslaughter, accused of chasing 42 year old Dale Simmons before he fell to his death at Chalk Pitt Hill, Chatham, in April.

But the hearing at Maidstone Crown Court ended dramatically before a jury was sworn, when a judge ruled they had no case to answer.

Tyrese Scott, 18, of Rochester Street, Chatham, a 17-year-old and two 16-year-old boys - who can't be named for legal reasons - were told by Judge Philip St John-Stevens they were free to leave.

The judgement followed two days of legal arguments by senior barristers from the prosecution and defence.

It had been alleged that Mr Simmons was chased over gardens following an argument over an alleged £50 debt - and the 42-year-old is believed to have jumped two fences before plunging 90ft to his death.

Mr Simmons had been walking with his partner near Chalk Pit Hill at around 7pm on Wednesday, April 13, when he fell and his body was only discovered the following day.

A number of tributes were later posted in honour of Mr Simmons.

One friend wrote: "Oh wow just seen about Dale Simmons...another one taken far too soon."

His father Peter Simmons also took to Facebook to share the news with friends and family.

He wrote: "It is with a sad and heavy heart Dee and I announce the death of our only son Dale Simmons. Rest in peace."