A FORMER Riddlesden woman, accused of sexual offences, has successfully applied for bail before a judge.

Michaela Hammersly, 62, is having to represent herself because of industrial action by solicitors, who are refusing to represent clients in new cases.

Hammersly, who is accused of breaching a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, failing to comply with the Sexual Offenders Register, engaging in unlawful sexual activity and making indecent photographs, had been remanded in custody on three appearances at crown court when she was unable to get legal representation.

Judge Jonathan Durham Hall QC had expressed concern at the situation.

He granted Hammersly, now of Southport but formerly of Western Avenue, Riddlesden, bail with strict conditions after she made the application herself.

She is expected to appear at Bradford Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing on September 14.