A CHARD man who sent his wife some abusive emails has been ordered to stand trial after denying that he had harassed her.

Andrew Parsons allegedly sent the complainant several emails containing abuse in the early hours of the morning leaving her feeling upset after she discovered them when she awoke.

The 50-year-old defendant, of Spicer Way, Chard, was charged that between June 1 and 4 at Chard he pursued a course of conduct which amounted to the harassment of his wife in that he sent her a number of abusive emails that caused distress to her.

He pleaded not guilty to the offence when he appeared before Somerset Magistrates, sitting as a special domestic violence court.

Prosecutor Christine Hart said that the couple had been married for 26 years, but after their relationship ended last year they attempted a reconciliation which failed and Parsons then sent the emails.

Following a review of the case it was adjourned until August 14 when the defendant was ordered to return to the court for a trial to take place.

Until then he was released on unconditional bail.