AN ex-teacher has denied racially aggravated harassment against travellers in a row over land near her home.

Grandmother Josie Hampson, 77, a school governor who runs a family toy shop and is said to be a pillar of her community, is also accused of using threatening words and behaviour against the family.

Hampson, a widow, was summoned to appear at Preston Magistrates' Court where she pleaded not guilty to both charges.

The defendant remained seated and smiled at the bench as she was asked to stand, apparently unable to hear the JP’s request until he motioned with his hands.

Hampson, of Hallsworth Fold Farm in Chorley, is understood to be a significant figure in a long-running local campaign against the use of green belt land near her home by a family of travellers.

The alleged incident took place on April 18. No further details about the alleged offences were given in court.

She was bailed until a trial date of August 30.