A man who is accused of holding up a convenience store a knifepoint is to face trial by judge and jury.

Jason Harper pleaded not guilty to robbery and possessing a bladed article when he appeared before Swindon Crown Court.

The 30-year-old is said to have been masked when he carried out the raid at Costcutter on Cheney Manor Road on Saturday, December 3.

It is said he got away with about £700 when he took the till drawer from the shop worker at knifepoint.

Harper, of Bourne Road, pleaded not guilty to robbery and possessing a bladed article when he appeared at Swindon Crown Court.

Recorder Susan Jacklin QC adjourned the case to a trial date to be fixed and remanded him in custody until then.

It is alleged a white man, wearing a face covering, camouflage trousers and a parka coat entered the store on December 3 at about 5.30pm.

After brandishing a knife towards the cashier it is alleged he demanded she open the till and give him its contents, pushing another customer out of the way.

The robber managed to take the cash drawer from the till and left the shop running to the right of the Manor pub before allegedly fleeing on a bike.