A HAMPSHIRE farmer who has been accused of manslaughter has pleaded not guilty.

As previously reported, Philip Tickner, 62, of Upper Lanham, near Old Alresford, has been accused of killing his employee Philip France, 57, through gross negligence.

Mr France suffered fatal injuries in an incident during the demolition of a cow shed in June 2021.

READ MORE: Old Alresford farmer Philip Tickner in court in manslaughter charge

Tickner appeared at Winchester Crown Court on Wednesday, November 22, where he pleaded not guilty to one case of manslaughter through gross negligence.

He also pleaded guilty to two counts of failure to discharge his duty through failing to ensure the health and welfare of his employees and failing to undertake the demolition of a cowshed in a way to keep employees safe.

The Recorder of Winchester Judge Angela Morris adjourned the case to be heard in full at Winchester Crown Court on October 2 next year. The trial is expected to take between 12 and 15 days.