A carer accused of taking more than £500 from a multiple sclerosis sufferer she was looking after is to face trial by jury.

Ellen Townsend pleaded not guilty to one count of theft and two counts of obtaining property by deception at Swindon Crown Court.

The 26-year-old is alleged to have taken two cheques from the woman she was caring for between New Year's Day and July 10 last year.

She is then said to have twice obtained money transfers of £300 and £250 by deception during the same period.

Townsend, formerly of Primrose Drive, Melksham and now of Coope Hill, Bromham, was released on bail and will face trial at a later date.