A MAN has appeared in court facing sex charges dating back almost 20 years.

Douglas Gailes, 59, is alleged to have carried out a series of sex attacks on a young girl, during the 1980s.

Newcastle Crown Court heard how the attacks started when the youngster was eight and went on for more than three years.

Anne Richardson, prosecuting, told the court: "Each time he would buy her a little gift, saying it was their little secret."

Mr Gailes, who then lived inMedomsley Road, Consett, County Durham, faces one charge of indecent assault and two of rape.

But Miss Richardson said: "The Crown say this did not happen on just two occasions, it happened on more. They are specimens."

Mr Gailes was arrested after the woman, now 25, broke her silence and told police.

Miss Richardson said Gailes denied the allegations from first to last, saying they were fabricated and made-up.

The trial continues