AN employee on a farm in Frome has appeared in crown court accused of stealing more than £60,000 of cows in a four-year period.

John Ward, aged 43, of Wardean Farm, Nunney, was said to have taken a total of 61 cows from his employer, Michel Samuel.

The theft was alleged to have happened between June 21, 2017, and June 1, 2021.

Ward, who had pleaded not guilty at an earlier hearing on November 14 last year, appeared in Taunton Crown Court before Judge Richard Shepherd.

However, Judge Shepherd said he knew the defendant and would therefore not be able to preside over his trial.

Ward was unconditionally bailed to appear again for a further case management hearing on October 26.