A MAN will stand trial accused of fleecing his neighbour out of tens of thousands of pounds and turning her house into a drugs den.

Barry Davis, 30, of no fixed address, denied theft, blackmail and making a dishonest representation when he appeared at Basildon Crown Court.

It is alleged Davis took over his 77-year-old neighbour’s home in Kent View Road, Vange.

He is accused of isolating her from her friends and family, selling sentimental items of her jewellery to pay for class A drugs and turning her home into a centre for a London-based drugs gang.

Davis was told his trial has been listed for April 7.

He was remanded in custody until his next appearance.