A FORMER bomb disposal expert has been charged with attempted murder after his pregnant wife was seriously injured in a car explosion.

The incident sent shock waves through the quiet village of Vigo on Friday (March 5).

Victoria Fabian was rushed to hospital with serious leg injuries as emergency services raced to the scene and roads around the couple's home in High View were cordoned off.

It is believed her unborn child is unharmed, and an older child in the car also escaped injury.

Her husband Nicholas appeared before Dartford Magistrates on Tuesday morning (March 9) charged with two counts of attempted murder and one of possessing firearms.

He stood motionless in the dock as he gave his name, date of birth and address. The case was adjourned until March 22, when the 32-year-old will appear at Maidstone Crown Court

In a statement, Mrs Fabian's family said: "We are deeply saddened and shocked by Friday's incident and the sequence of events as they unfold.

"At the moment all our energy and attention is focussed on supporting Vicky and her children.

"Vicky is in the best place and has started her long road to recovery."

Read the Sevenoaks Chronicle on Thursday for a full account of the incident, and witness accounts. The full story will appear in the Malling edition.