MAJOR Charles Ingram from Easterton has opted for trial by jury at crown court on two charges of obtaining pecuniary advantage by deception.

The charges relate to applications for insurance policies, dating from between November 1 2001 and January 22 this year and between June and August 1997.

Major Ingram, 38, from The Grange, High Street, Easterton, appeared briefly before Kennet magistrates on Monday morning to plead not guilty to both charges.

He was offered the option of being tried by magistrates or going before a jury at Salisbury Crown Court.

He chose the latter.

His case was adjourned until September 4 for committal papers to be prepared and the Major was released on unconditional bail.

Major Ingram became famous after winning £1 million on the ITV show Who Wants to be a Millionaire, only to have the jackpot denied.

He is currently taking legal action against the programme makers in an attempt to receive the money.