Russell Brand pleads not guilty to rape and sexual assault charges

Russell Brand has pleaded not guilty to charges of rape and sexual assault.

During a brief hearing at Southwark crown court in London on Friday, the comedian and actor pleaded not guilty to the five sexual offence charges.

The 49-year-old appeared at Westminster magistrates court earlier this month where he heard details of allegations against him.

The offences are said to have taken place against four women between 1999 and 2005.

Brand was told he faces trial next June.

More details soon …