A SWINDON man who denies sexual assault on a boy and a girl has been bailed in order to face trial.

Stephen Hyam appeared before Swindon Crown Court on five sexual assault charges.

The offences are alleged to have taken place between May and September last year.

Police claim Hyam inappropriately touched and kissed an eight-year-old boy and touched the girl, aged 10.

Wearing a striped blue shirt and tie, the 65-year-old of Fitwell Road, Oakhurst, pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Hyam is expected to be tried in the last few days of October, after the alleged victims’ mother asked the judge the matter be dealt with during half term.

Judge Jason Taylor QC acknowledged this may mean Hyam’s preferred barrister could not represent him. But he said the nature of the case meant the children’s needs should be prioritised.

He asked prosecutor Hannah Squire to ask the mother if she would be willing for the case to be heard later in November to allow Hyam’s trial solicitor to take the case. However, Judge Taylor added: “I don’t want her to feel under any pressure and I want her to take the decision in the best interests of the children.”

Hyam was released on l bail for the trial, provisionally set for Monday, October 29.