A JUDGE has issued a warrant for the arrest of a Trowbridge woman who is accused of theft and deception.

Jayne Knight failed to turn up at Swindon Crown Court to answer charges relating to the alleged theft and use of a benefit book.

The 38-year-old is said to have stolen a benefit book and then obtained cash with it on a number of occasions at the Lowden Post Office in Chippenham.

Knight was first due at the crown court in the last week of July but failed to attend for medical reasons.

On that occasion the court was told that she had suffered a miscarriage and had been signed off work for the following week.

The case was adjourned to last Friday for her to attend with a medical certificate but she failed to appear.

Sarah Regan, for Knight, said that her solicitors had not been given a reason for the non-appearance of her client.

Knight, of Timbrell Street, Trowbridge, was expected to enter pleas to one charge of theft, four of deception and one of attempted deception.

Judge Charles Wade issued a warrant for the arrest of Knight without bail to bring her before the court.