Ex-football coach Bennell denies 20 sex off ence charges

Former football coach Barry Bennell has pleaded not guilty to 20 charges of historic child sexual abuse against four boys in the 1980s. Th e 63-year-old appeared via videolink from prison at Chester Crown Court. Mr Bennell had already denied eight of the off ences but entered not guilty pleas again as 12 further charges were added. He was a youth scout and junior football coach associated with a number of clubs, most notably Crewe Alexandra.

Th e charges include 14 counts of indecent assault, fi ve counts of serious sexual assault and one count of attempted serious sexual assault. Th e alleged off ences took place between 1980 and 1987 and involved four complainants who were boys under 16 at the time.

Th e case was adjourned to 3 July when a hearing will take place at Liverpool Crown Court. Judge Roger Dutton said a trial was likely to be listed for January in Liverpool. Mr Bennell was remanded in custody

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