Charity boss accused of stealing £700k

♦ The chief executive of a charity has been accused of stealing more than £700,000 by paying cheques into his own account and awarding himself bonuses. John Briers abused his position at Age Concern South Tyneside to steal from the charity between 2007 and 2015, Newcastle Crown Court heard. The 57-year-old, from Gateshead, denies three allegations of fraud. Anthony Dunne, prosecuting, said Mr Briers used fake invoices and fraudulent minutes of board meetings in a bid to cover his tracks.

Mr Briers made no comment during police interview and later claimed that payments were diverted to his account so he could pay suppliers in cash.

The trial continues.