Man denies sex offences

Mark Wakeling, of Portland Road, Langwith, denied seven counts when he appeared at Nottingham Crown Court.

The 46-year-old is due to stand trial next March.

Wakeling worked for Connexions at its Ryton Street office.

The organisation helps young people access employment, skills and training.

He pleaded not guilty to sexual activity with a child, a girl aged 15, between April and May 2009.

The alleged victim cannot be named for legal reasons.

He also denied causing the girl to engage in sexual activity with him when she was under 18 and he was in a position of trust.

He pleaded not guilty to five counts covering the time she was 16 and 17.

And he denied a further charge alleging he incited her to engage in sexual activity by sending her sexualised text messages – and by receiving sexualised images from her.

Wakeling was charged in July this year but he must wait until March 2014 for his trial.

Judge Michael Stokes, the Recorder of Nottingham, fixed the trial to start on 3rd March, estimating it could last four to five days. The judge allowed Wakeling’s bail to continue.