The former director of a journalism college has appeared in court charged with fraud and four counts of false trading. Stephen Ward, 63, who ran NoSweat Journalism in Clerkenwell Close, Clerkenwell, appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court last Thursday.

The charges relate to the college’s use of the term NCTJ (National Council for the Training of Journalists) on its website, and the allegation that students were not informed that courses – which cost nearly �4,000 – were no longer accredited by the industry body.

The case was adjourned until September 13 so Mr Ward could seek legal advice and apply for legal aid.