Wisbech man denies series of sexual offences against children

A man has denied a string of sexual offences against children, including four counts of rape.

Christopher Church, 26, pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape of a boy under 13, two counts of rape of a girl under 13, four offences of inciting a boy to engage in sexual activity, and three counts of sexual assault, when he appeared before Ipswich Crown Court today (Thursday).

Church, now of Prince Street, Wisbech, but formerly of Suffolk, is alleged to have carried out the offences in the county between June 2008 and December 2017.

With members of his family sitting in the public gallery, Church spoke to confirm his name and age, and then sat in the dock and listened to how the case against him would proceed.

During the 19-minute hearing, his defence barrister Adam Norris and prosecutor Lori Tucker said the trial against Church was expected to last between five and seven days.

Recorder Sally O’Neill fixed a trial date for June 6 next year, but said the date could be brought forward.

She released him on unconditional bail and warned him he must attend court when required.