A MAN is to face trial next year after he pleaded not guilty to sexual offence claims allegedly committed against a girl.

Lloyd Barrett, 33, has been charged with two counts of child rape, two of sexual activity with a child and one of assault by penetration of a child under 13.

The prosecution claims he did so in the Blackwood area between 2008 and 2012.

The defendant is due to stand trial on February 17, 2025.

MORE NEWS: Drug driving dealer caught with nearly 2kg of cannabis and £4,250 cash

Barrett, of St Tydfil's Avenue, Twynyrodyn, Merthyr Tydfil was granted bail after appearing at Newport Crown Court.