An osteopath and masseur has appeared in court to deny 55 sexual offences relating to 14 female clients.
Terence McBrien, 72, of Alnwick, Northumberland, went before Newcastle Crown Court on Thursday for a hearing lasting about an hour.
It took the court clerk more than 16 minutes to read out all 55 charges which comprise one count of attempted rape, seven counts of sexual assault by penetration, 34 counts of sexual assault by touching and 13 counts of voyeurism.
The charges relate to 14 women who engaged with McBrien while he offered services as a masseur or osteopath, Kama Melly KC, prosecuting, told the court.
The allegations date between 2011 and 2021.
McBrien answered ‘not guilty’ in a clear voice to each of the charges.
Judge Edward Bindloss told McBrien that a trial lasting up to four months will take place from April 19, 2027.
McBrien was granted conditional bail in the meantime and was told to attend two pre-trial hearings in July and March.
After announcing that McBrien had been charged, police urged anyone who believes they have information about the allegations to come forward.
Detective Sergeant Michael Rainbow, who was in charge of the Northumbria Police investigation into the allegations against McBrien, previously said: ‘Following a complex and lengthy investigation, an individual has now been charged with attempted rape and more than 50 other serious sexual offences.
‘We recognise the nature and number of the charges may raise concern and anxiety within our communities.
‘We would encourage anyone who does have concerns or believes they have information which is relevant to this case to come forward.
‘We would also like to remind people that with criminal proceedings now active, it is important to avoid speculation both online and in the communities which could impact the case.’
