THE FORMER headteacher of a Lewes primary school has denied stealing equipment from the school.

Garry Michael Thompson is accused of stealing items including a power amp, Apple I-pad, cables, hub adaptors and Polar heart rate watch from Western Road Community Primary School.

The incidents are alleged to have taken place between January 2011 and February 2012, while he was the headteacher there.

The 47-year-old is currently suspended from his new role as headteacher of Holme Valley Primary School, in North Lincolnshire, due to the allegation.

He pleaded not guilty to one count of theft when he appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

He chose to be tried by a jury and is due to appear at Lewes Crown Court on September 26.

Mr Thompson, of Rooklands, Scotter, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, was arrested on February 21 by Sussex Police.