A TRIAL date has been set for a man accused of blackmailing someone for money.

Thomas Butler, of Calthorpe Road, Banbury, appeared at Oxford Crown Court on Wednesday (September 4) charged with one count of blackmail.

The 31-year-old is accused of blackmailing a 78-year-old man, David Barrett, between May 10 and June 2 this year for an unknown amount of the money.

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It was heard that the relationship between the pair is currently unknown and has not been disclosed by the alleged victim.

Butler spoke only to confirm his identity and to plead not guilty to the offence.

He is now due to stand trial, which is expected to last two to three days, on March 3 next year.

The trial is in a warned list.