A man is to go on trial next year accused of sexually communicating with a 12-year-old schoolgirl.

Ryan Osbourne – formerly known as Chinnery – appeared by prison video link to plead not guilty at Canterbury Crown Court.

Judge Heather Norton set the date for the two day hearing for February 28 next year.

She asked him if his surname was now Osbourne and he confirmed he had changed his name.

The alleged offence took place on September 16 this year and Osbourne, of Golf Road, Deal, was remanded in custody.