Ex-Army man on child-sex rap

A former Oldham soldier is accused of child sex charges dating back almost 30 years.

Paul Lockwood was named a wanted man by police investigating the alleged rape of the youngster.

The 42 year old was thought to have fled abroad but was arrested in Somerset, where he had been working on a farm.

Manchester Crown Court heard he had been on holiday abroad and had called police as soon as he heard they were looking for him.

Mr Lockwood, of Mora Avenue, Chadderton, pleads not guilty to five counts of rape against the girl, then aged between six and nine. He also pleads not guilty to three counts of attempted rape and two offences of indecent assault. The offences are alleged to have occurred in Werneth between 1984-88.

The case has been adjourned until December.