A man accused of sexually assaulting a teen train passenger during a journey between Carlisle and Whitehaven is set to stand trial in front of a jury later this year.
Dale Alderson, 43, faced one charge when he appeared at the city’s crown court this morning.
This alleges that he sexually assaulted a girl in her late teens — by kissing her hand and carrying out another act. It is said this happened during a westbound train journey on February 28 last year.
Alderson has been brought to court as part of a British Transport Police prosecution.
During today’s court hearing, he pleaded not guilty to the allegation.
His trial is due to start at the crown court in the week of September 11 and, it is estimated, will last two to three days.
In the meantime Alderson, of New Street, Southowram, near Halifax, was granted bail by Judge Richard Archer and reminded to keep in touch with his legal team in the coming months.
