One of the country's most prominent female judges is to face trial for allegedly perverting the course of justice in connection with the Chris Huhne speeding case.

Constance Briscoe, 56, from Clapham Common, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court this morning charged with two counts of perverting the course of justice.

Mrs Briscoe, a neighbour of Mrs Pryce, denied the charges.

The barrister is accused of altering witness statements made to police in 2011 and 2012 regarding former Liberal Democrat minister Mr Huhne and his ex-wife Vicky Pryce.

Mr Huhne and his ex-wife were both sentenced to eight months after it emerged that she took his speeding points.

Both parties have now been relased from prison.

She will appear again at Southwark Crown Court on July 2 where a trial date will be set.