The former landlord of a pub in Swindon has pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting a “vulnerable” teenager.
Peter Richardson, known to many as Marc, appeared in Swindon Crown Court on May 31 accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old between September and October of 2022.
Richardson, 62, who now lives in Oaklands Camblesforth, York, was the landlord of the Rat Trap pub on Highworth Road at the time of the alleged offences but retired in September 2023.
His trial will be at Swindon Crown Court on February 19, 2025.
Swindon Magistrates' Court previously heard on April 29 how Richardson made the teen feel uncomfortable from the moment they met, and "would regularly put his hands on her hips" or "comment on how he enjoyed her breasts".
The unwanted sexual attention is alleged to have reached its height on October 20, 2022, when the victim stood outside the pub.
"The victim says he stuffed some rubbish up her top and then grabbed her breasts," said prosecutor Keith Ballinger.
"She said she shouted out and then he laughed and went back inside.
“The victim was particularly vulnerable due to her age.”
Richardson appeared at Crown Court virtually, represented by Emma Handslip, and prosecuted by Rob Welling.
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