A man has denied raping a woman more than 30 years ago.

John Masser, 49, of Victoria Road, Laindon, appeared at Basildon Crown Court yesterday to deny raping a woman who was 18 at the time on August 1, 1986 as well as a further offence on June 1, 1987.

Masser only spoke to confirm his name and address.

Both Shauna Ritchie, for the defence and Cyrus Schroff, for the prosecution, agreed that it was best that the case be handled sooner rather than later.

Ms Ritchie said: “The case is quite aged so there is desire to get it dealt with as quickly as possible.”

Masser is set to appear for trial on November 27.

He has been granted conditional bail with the condition that Masser has no contact of any form with the complainant.

Masser must also provide a detailed statement in his defence.