[Omah]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-19463067

Former News International boss Rebekah Brooks has appeared in court to face charges related to alleged phone hacking.

Mrs Brooks, 44, appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court earlier, accused of an alleged conspiracy to illegally access voicemails.

She faces a general charge, and two other specific charges linked to murdered schoolgirl Milly Dowler and former union boss Andrew Gilchrist.

Mrs Brooks denies the charges.

Prosecutors claim the general charge could affect more than 600 victims.

Seven other reporters and editors from the now-defunct News of the World have already appeared to face similar charges, including former Downing Street press director Andy Coulson.

Those charged appeared in court earlier this month and are next due to appear at Southwark Crown Court on 26 September.

During Monday's brief hearing, the former News International chief executive, wearing a dark jacket and skirt, was told she would also appear at the court on that date with the others accused.

Mrs Brooks, from Churchill, Oxfordshire, spoke to confirm her address and date of birth.

There was a large media presence outside court. However, she did not speak to journalists.