A man accused of stealing the bill money of a terminally ill pensioner who has since died is to face trial by jury.

Marcus Miller pleaded not guilty to a charge of burglary when he appeared before a judge at Swindon crown court.

The 21-year-old is said to have been involved in the offence in which Dot Kirkland's purse and contents was taken earlier this year.

The pensioner, who had been diagnosed as having cancer shortly before the alleged offence, has since died the court was told.

Miller, of Beechcroft Road, Swindon, pleaded not guilty to one charge of burglary of a dwelling on The Lawns, Wootton Bassett.

He was released on bail on condition he lives at his home address to Tuesday January 29 next year when he is to face trial by jury.