Falmouth’s former deputy town clerk and finance officer has denied five counts of fraud totalling £2,070.48.

Simon Polglase, from Goldsithney, pleaded not guilty at Truro Magistrates’ Court to committing fraud between November 1, 2007 and March 31, 2010 while in a position in which he was “expected to safeguard, or not to act against, the financial interests of Falmouth Town Council.”

It was alleged he “dishonestly abused that position, intending to make a gain” by upgrading his salary pay-scale to gain an estimated £1,500 for himself.

It was also alleged that he altered or authorised personal claims on four separate occasions, to make £200, £151.47, £100 and £119.01 respectively, between November 1, 2008 and February 28, 2010.

The case was adjourned until January 5, when 44-year-old Polglase will be committed to Truro Crown Court for trial.