A TRAINEE solicitor has been suspended by bosses at a legal firm after being charged with forgery and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Legal executive Imtiaz Adam, 27, appeared in court yesterday accused of forging a signature on a retraction statement made by a witness in a criminal case as well as illegally trying to pervert justice.

Adam, of Preston New Road, Blackburn, is currently suspended from his post at Parker and Pickles Solicitors in Richmond Terrace, Blackburn.

He spoke only to confirm his name, address, and that he understood the charges when he appeared at the town's magistrate's court.

A spokesman for Parker and Pickles confirmed that Adam was an employee of the firm and said he would remain suspended from his job pending the outcome of any trial.

The two charges are believed to relate to an alleged offence which took place in the last few months. No further details of the charges were given either in court or by the solicitor's firm.

Magistrates ordered Adam to appear at Preston Crown Court on November 29.

He was granted unconditional bail.