A former West Midlands MEP is in court this morning over allegations of money laundering and misconduct in a public office.

Nikki Sinclaire, who represented the region in Brussels between 2009 and 2014, signed and submitted “significant” expenses “in excess of the flight costs” according to the prosecution.

The 'We Demand a Referendum Party' founder, is accused of misconduct in a public office between October 2009 and July 2010 while a serving member of the European Parliament by making or causing to be made false or dishonest claims for travel expenses.

The 47-year-old, of Shirley, Solihull, is further charged between October 2009 and December 2010 of fraudulently transferring criminal property into her bank account.

Sinclaire, who is on bail, denies all the charges against her.

Follow live updates from court below.