A COUNCILLOR accused of engaging in sexual activity with children and teenagers has denied all of the charges against him.

Cllr David Smith, who represents Coulby Newham on Middlesbrough Council, pleaded not guilty to seven charges said to have occurred several years ago.

The 30-year-old is accused of having sex with a child, engaging in sexual activity with two other children and four teenagers.

Wearing a white patterned shirt and glasses, Cllr Smith appeared at Teesside Crown Court where he denied all of the allegations against him.

He was released on bail until his four-day trial scheduled for June 1, 2020.

Following the accusations, Cllr Smith, of Rainsford Crescent, Middlesbrough, resigned from the Conservative Party but stated he intends to remain as a councillor.

In a statement he previously said: “I completely reject these spurious allegations and removing myself from the party will ensure I can focus all my efforts on fighting to clear my name.”