A LANDOWNER could face trial in front of magistrates for a public order offence later this year.

Frances Payne, the owner of Hampton Mill in Evesham, previously denied a charge of using threatening/abusive/insulting words/behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress. 

The 57-year-old appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on July 31 for the latest hearing of her case. 

The Section 5 public order offence is alleged by the prosecution to have taken place in Evesham on January 13 this year. 

Worcester News: COURT: Frances Payne outside Worcester Magistrates CourtCOURT: Frances Payne outside Worcester Magistrates Court (Image: Sam Greenway/Newsquest)

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During the hearing, Payne's legal team said it is their wish for the trial to be moved out of the area to ensure a fair trial.

The defence was told to submit the improved application to transfer out of the area before August 21, giving the prosecution the chance to respond before September 18. 

Payne was told to appear at the next hearing of the case at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on November 2. 

Payne was granted unconditional bail.