Rape charge pensioner to stand trial later this year

Jeffrey Waite, who police say is from the Hartlepool area, was due to stand trial in 2016.

He failed to turn up at court, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Police then traced Waite to Spain, where he was arrested before being brought back to this country last week.

During a short preliminary hearing at Teesside Crown Court, Waite indicated he denied the allegations against him.

A judge set a trial date of September 17 and the case was adjourned.

Waite was remanded in custody in the meantime.