CARER Ellen Townsend, who is accused of taking more than £500 from a multiple sclerosis sufferer she was looking after, is to face trial by jury.

Townsend, 26, formerly of Primrose Drive, Melksham, but now of Coope Hill, Bromham,pleaded not guilty to theft and obtaining property by deception when she appeared at Swindon Crown Court.

She is said 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.

She denies one count of theft and two of deception.

She was released on bail by the court and will face a trial by jury at a later date.