A motorist accused of leading police on a chase and then lying to officers about his car being stolen is to face trial by jury.

Matthew Rogers pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice when he appeared at Swindon Crown Court on Friday.

The 23-year-old is said to have been behind the wheel of a Ford Focus when it was driven away from officers in Canal Road, Trowbridge on Sunday, August 4 last year.

The vehicle was then allegedly driven dangerously on Shails Lane, Wicker Hill, Hill Street, Hammond Way, and the B3106 Holt road before being dumped in Broughton Gifford.

He is then alleged to have falsely reported the vehicle as stolen when he contacted the police the following day.

Rogers, of Downs View, Bradford on Avon, admitted a charge of possessing cannabis. The case was adjourned to Tuesday, August 12, and he was released on unconditional bail until then.