Andrew Lancel facing trial over child sex offences

Andrew Lancel has been ordered to stand trial over five child sex offences.

The former Coronation Street star, who left the hit soap opera in March, faces five counts of indecent assault on a child under 16. The charges, filed under the star's real name Andrew Watkinson, are thought to date back 20 years to his time as a trainee actor.

The 42 year-old appeared at Liverpool Crown Court in England on Friday for a preliminary hearing, and only spoke to confirm his name.

He was granted bail and his next hearing has been set for 15 April, when he is expected to officially enter a plea.

The actor has previously protested his innocence against the charges. His trial will commence on 3 June.