A MAN accused of a string of sex offences in and around Chard has died. 

Taunton Crown Court was told on Monday of the death of 47-year-old John Horton, who was on remand in prison in Devon, facing 12 charges of abusing girls over a number of years. 

All of the alleged offences were said to have taken place in the Chard area.

A court spokesman said Mr Horton was facing seven counts of rape and five other sexual assault charges. 

The spokesman did not say how or when he died.