TWO men denied stealing £40,000 from a developer.

Mark Schlitz and Roger Gladman appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court where they pleaded not guilty to theft.

Gladman, 47, of Wakering Avenue, Shoebury, was charged with stealing £40,000 of building materials from County and Metropolitan Homes on May 6 this year.

Schlitz, 48, of Eagle Way, Shoebury, was charged with theft by finding.

They were both bailed until their next appearance at Basildon Crown Court on October 20.