A churchman accused of sex attacks is to deny all charges.

The Reverend Neville Husband entered no pleas during a short hearing at Newcastle Crown Court yesterday, and spoke only to confirm his name.

But his barrister, Christopher Knox, said: "I can indicate publicly his pleas to all the counts will be not guilty."

The Rev Husband was suspended by the United Reform Church after three people came forward with accusations dating back more almost 30 years.

The 64-year-old, of Snows Green Road, Shotley Bridge, Consett, County Durham, was granted bail and will return before the court next month.