Three brothers have appeared before a judge at Worcester Crown Court charged with a series of sex crimes dating back up to 44 years ago.

Noah Johns, aged 59, of Farleigh Road, Pershore, denied seven counts of rape and one of indecent assault.

Reggie Johns, 57, of Deacle Place, Evesham, also pleaded not guilty to seven rape charges and one of indecent assault.

Michael Johns, 56, of Milton Road, Weston-super-Mare, denied four counts of rape.

The charges between September 1, 1965, and September 30, 1973, centre around two alleged victims who were then between the ages of nine and 16, Judge John Cavell was told.

He fixed a two-week trial to start on June 21 next year and granted the trio bail with a condition to keep away from prosecution witnesses.