THE trial of Easterton-based Major Charles Ingram on allegations of insurance fraud is to be moved to Bournemouth because Salisbury Crown Court is too small to cope with the huge media presence expected for it.

Journalists from national newspapers, TV and radio were herded into the jury benches last Friday for the brief appearance of Major Ingram, who was found guilty of cheating on ITV's Who Wants to be a Millionaire? and now faces fresh charges of gaining pecuniary interest by making a false instrument. This is thought to refer to applications for insurance policies in 1997 and 2001.

Major Ingram has pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Chris Parker, prosecuting, asked Recorder John Dixon to make an order banning any reference to the case until it is dealt with. He told the judge that publicity following the conviction of Major Ingram, his wife Diana and college lecturer Tecwen Whittock on fraud charges in connection with the TV quiz show had made the situation difficult in relation to the new case and further publicity "wouldn't assist."

A previous order, banning publication of any details of the insurance case, was made at Salisbury Crown Court in October, but lapsed at the end of the trial at Southwark Crown Court in March. But Sean Enright, defending, replied that a new order would make no difference. He said: "The publicity since the trial has been so prejudicial, so damaging that nothing you can do can possibly make it any better. The case is irredeemably prejudiced."

Recorder Dixon decided not to make an order banning publication under the Contempt of Court Act, saying that the press was under the normal constraints regarding reporting of a case that was "live." He said: "I am not, on balance, persuaded that even a temporary order is necessary."

The case was adjourned until June 5 at Bournemouth Crown Court. Major Ingram was released on bail.