A STROUD businessman has appeared in court in connection with an alleged £159,000 fraud case.

Jeffrey Hoslett, former owner of Cotswold Residential Lettings Ltd in Stroud, is accused of trading for a fraudulent purpose by carrying on a business with intent to defraud creditors.

Gloucester Crown Court heard that the charges involve around £159,000 that was allegedly defrauded from clients.

Hoslett, aged 43, now of Crosshills, Keighley, West Yorkshire, is yet to make a plea.

He was bailed pending a plea and case management hearing on August 30.