TRURO: A former manager of B&Q branch in Penryn has appeared in Truro Crown Court accused of stealing more than £61 000.

It is alleged that Nicholas Mead, 37, gave refunds to bogus customers but kept the money himself. He denies four charges of fraud and two of theft.

He was arrested in November 2007, following his suspension from the company in June and subsequent resignation. Prosecutor Jonathan Barnes told the jury at his trial this week: "There is evidence of high living, of a lifestyle that cannot be explained by his legitimate income."

The charge against Mr Mead is abuse of position by falsely making cash refunds with intent to make a gain for himself or another. Two further charges allege theft between August 2006 and June 2008. In his position as manager, Mr Mead was able to authorise cash refunds without production of receipts.

Mr Barnes said: "We say he systematically abused that position to fraudulently pretend that he was causing refunds to be processed when there were no genuine customers at all.

"Mead was simply pocketing the cash he pretended was being refunded."

The trial continues.