Ralph Clarke, believed to be Britain’s oldest defendant, pleaded not guilty to 31 charges at Birmingham crown court

This article is more than 4 years old

This article is more than 4 years old

A 101-year-old man thought to be the oldest defendant in British legal history has denied committing a string of historical sexual offences against three children.

Ralph Clarke, a former lorry driver, was allowed to remain seated and not required to enter the dock as he pleaded not guilty to 31 charges at Birmingham crown court.

Clarke, who was born in March 1915, is alleged to have committed 17 indecent assaults, 12 offences of indecency with a child, and two attempted serious sexual offences between 1974 and 1983.

During a 40-minute court appearance, Clarke turned down the offer of a hearing loop, telling the court clerk his hearing aid had a new battery.

The pensioner, from Erdington in Birmingham, was told six witnesses were due to give evidence at his trial, which is expected to start on 5 December and last for about two weeks.

Clarke used a walking stick and a handrail to support himself as he left court on unconditional bail.