Earl to face trial on theft and damage charges (From Swindon Advertiser)

Earl to face trial on theft and damage charges

11:12am Friday 13th July 2012 in News

THE Earl of Cardigan is to face a jury trial after denying allegations of criminal damage and theft on his estate last month.

The 59-year-old is accused of one count of criminal damage to pheasant feeders and of a theft of a battery and electrical unit from the Savernake Estate where he lives.

He appeared as David Brudenell-Bruce at Swindon Magistrates’ Court yesterday, wearing a dark double-breasted suit and black tie – he attended court shortly before his ex-wife Rosamond Winkley’s funeral – and entered not guilty pleas to the charges.

It follows an appearance at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court last week during which he collapsed and had to be taken to hospital, meaning he was unift to plead.

Crown prosecutor Michelle Hewitt said the charges referred to some allegedly damaged pheasant feeders worth £66 belonging to Savernake gamekeeper Peter Tilley, and the alleged theft of a battery and electrical unit also belonging to Mr Tilley, valued at £80.

Marie-Claire Amuah, acting for Mr Brudenell-Bruce, said he denies the charges and the earl, of Savernake Lodge, near Marlborough, chose to be tried by a jury.

He is also due to stand trial at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on October 5 on two other charges, one of assault and one of criminal damage.

Judge Cooper released him on bail on condition that he has no contact with the five witnesses in the case.

He is due to appear at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on September 6.