A MAN has denied sexually abusing a child while she was under the age of 13.

Iain Elrick of Kitwell Lane, Birmingham, denies nine sexual offences against a child as his trial began at Worcester Crown Court yesterday.

The complainant, now an adult and who cannot be identified for legal reasons, is expected to give evidence in the trial which concerns alleged abuse in Bromsgrove when she was under the age of 13. The case will also include a video-recorded interview with the alleged victim.

The 44-year-old denies six counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, one count of sexual activity with a child and two counts of paying for the sexual services of a child.

The case is prosecuted by Matthew Barnes. Elrick is represented by Lynette McClement. The case is being heard by Recorder John Butterfield QC.