A MAN described as a professional fundraiser appeared in court yesterday accused of offences which were said to have netted more than £50,000

Dean Russell White, 35, pleaded not guilty to 12 charges of having a collection tin and badges, for use in the course of or in connection with cheating, outside stores in Harrogate, Leeds and Maltby, near Rotherham, during the period from June 3, 1998, to September 27, 2000.

Harrogate magistrates ordered Mr White to be tried before a judge and jury and adjourned the hearing until April 24 when he is expected to be sent to York Crown Court.

Mr White, of Sweet Briar, Harrogate, was granted conditional bail.