15 May 2013

William Roache appears in court on rape charge

11:06 am on 15 May 2013

Coronation Street star William Roache has appeared in court in Britain accused of raping a 15-year-old girl in 1967.

Mr Roache, 81, was arrested at his home in Wilmslow, Cheshire, on 1 May and later charged with two counts of rape.

The actor, who has played Ken Barlow in the soap since its launch in 1960, has said he strenuously denies the charges, the BBC reports.

He appeared at Preston Magistrates' Court and his case was committed to a higher for a hearing on 10 June.

The television network ITV says the actor will not appear in Coronation Street while the case is before the courts.