A PENSIONER has denied a string of historic sex abuse charges.

Brian Fairchild, 76, of Gordon Road, Corringham, denied six counts of indecent assault of a child under 13 between January 1, 1974 and December 31, 1976.

He also denied one count of rape between January 1, 1977 and December 31, 1982, when he appeared at Basildon Crown Court yesterday.

His case was adjourned until December 17, for a trial which is expected to last for five days.

Fairchild was released on bail.