JK Rowling's former personal assistant has been ordered to repay £18,734 to the author after a court ruled she obtained the money fraudulently.

Ms Rowling sought damages against Amanda Donaldson in a civil case brought under the author's married name Joanne Murray.

In a written determination issued after the case was heard at Airdrie Sheriff Court, Sheriff Derek O'Carroll found during her employment Ms Donaldson obtained £18,734 through fraud.

He said Donaldson is bound to repay the sum to her former employer together with interest at 8%.

In a statement, the Harry Potter author said: "JK Rowling is pleased that Sheriff O'Carroll has ruled that her former PA Amanda Donaldson must repay the money she fraudulently misappropriated from Ms Rowling.