A FORMER West Midlands MEP has appeared before magistrates accused of money laundering offences after an inquiry into her expense claims.

Nikki Sinclaire, who lost her seat in the European Parliament earlier this year, also faced an allegation of committing misconduct in a public office.

On Wednesday, September 17, Sinclaire spoke only to confirm her full name, address and date of birth during a three-minute hearing at Birmingham Magistrates' Court.

The 45-year-old, whose lawyer said she strongly denied the allegations, was not required to enter a formal plea to either of the charges.

Sinclaire was charged in July this year after a two-and-a-half-year inquiry by West Midlands Police and the European Anti-Fraud Office.

The money laundering charge alleges that she converted criminal property between October 2009 and December 2010 and the misconducted relates to alleged false and dishonest travelling expense claims between October 2009 and July 2010.

During the hearing on Wednesday, her solicitor-advocate, Regan Peggs, said both "linked" charges would be denied.

The ex-MEP has previously described the allegations as "ludicrous" and unfounded.

In a statement issued in July, Sinclaire said she would be firmly defending herself against the charges, which related to a time when she was "under the guidance and oversight" of Ukip.

Sinclaire, who left UKIP after May's European elections to stand for the We Demand a Referendum Now party, was granted unconditional bail and is next due to appear at Birmingham Crown Court on January 7.