PAINSWICK postmistress Karen Judd has been charged with stealing items from the Royal Mail.

Judd, aged 42, appeared at Gloucester Crown Court on Friday accused of six thefts from the mail.

The court was told that Judd, of New Street, Painswick, will be denying allegations that she stole parcels containing jewellery, clothing, a carriage clock and a mobile phone which passed through her post office.

She was released on bail pending a further hearing on November 5.