A BABYSITTER who is accused of sexually abusing a seven-year-old girl almost 40 years ago is to face trial by judge and jury.

Stephen Oliver, 57, pleaded not guilty to three counts of indecent assault and one of indecency with a child when he appeared at Swindon Crown Court.

Oliver, of Clarendon Drive, Royal Wootton Bassett, pleaded not guilty to three counts of indecent assault and one of indecency with a child.

He is accused of molesting the youngster when he babysat for her in the year to November 1978.

Judge Tim Mousley QC adjourned the case to Monday, May 22, and released him on bail until then.