Brid man denies sex charges

Andrew Hirst, 52, of Burstall Walk, Bridlington, made a five-minute appearance before Judge Simon Jack in Hull Crown Court on Monday March 7.

He was asked to stand as he was told he was charged with four offences on two girls. He denied two rapes on one girl and rape and indecent assault on a second girl.

Mr Hirst replied to all charges: “Not guilty, Sir.”

Defence barrister Paul Genney said a defence statement had been filed and a trial date proposed. He said Mr Hirst lived in Bridlington

Crown barrister Mark McKone said the date of September 26 had been suggested for the trial.

Judge Simon Jack ordered Hirst to stand as he told him: “The case will remain listed for September 26 as a fixture. The time estimate is four days.

“I will renew your bail on the same conditions as before. You must understand it is offence punishable by imprisonment if you do break a condition of bail.

“You must also understand you must attend for trial as it could go ahead in your absence if you do not and that would not be in your interests.”

Mr Hirst replied: “Yes, Sir.”

A trial is scheduled for September 26 2016.