[A] MAN accused of raping and sexually assaulting a woman is to stand trial early next year.
Paul Anthony Fuller, 36, faced a total of nine charges when he appeared at Carlisle Crown Court this afternoon.
Fuller, of Greenhill, Brampton, near Carlisle, denied two charges alleging the rape of a woman, and two others alleging sexual assault. He also pleaded not guilty to allegedly causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent.
During a short hearing, Fuller further denied three charges alleging the possessing of offensive weapons in a public place – namely a baton, a meat cleaver and two knives.
All charges arise out of incidents which allegedly occurred in late July.
A timetable for the progression of the case was outlined by prosecutor Tim Evans, who said in view of Fuller’s denials: “There will need to be a trial. I would estimate that the trial will take something in the region of three days.”
That is due to start at the crown court on January 7 next year.
In the meantime Fuller, who appeared via a video link and spoke only to confirm his name and enter not guilty pleas, was remanded in custody by Judge Barbara Forrester.