A WOMAN who is accused of causing more than £11,000 of damage to a sheltered housing block in Basingstoke by setting fire to it has appeared at magistrates' court.

Veronica Theart, of Radstock Road, Southampton, allegedly commited arson at Roland House, in Cliddesden Road, on July 3, 2021.

The building, belonging to the care home provider Abbeyfield Society, was reportedly damaged to the value of more than £11,831.88. 

Theart is additionally accused of a further attempted arson offence at homeless hostel May Place on August 28, 2021, in which it is alleged she tried to damage property by setting fire to it. 

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The 64-year-old appeared by video link at Basingstoke Magistrates' Court on Friday, July 15, speaking only to confirm her name, address and date of birth.

Prosecutor David Fossler told the court that, as the incidents are being treated as "linked", both offences should be sent to crown court. This was agreed by Ed Stott, defending. 

Magistrates sent the case to Winchester Crown Court on Wednesday, August 17.

Theart has been given unconditional bail until the next hearing at crown court.

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