Man denies string of sexual offences

Joshua Atkinson, 27, is set to face trial in September.

A man has denied 11 counts of rape.

Joshua Atkinson, 27, also pleaded not guilty to six counts of assault by penetration, one of sexual assault and one of attempted rape.

He did not enter pleas to four further counts of rape and one allegation of sexual assault during a hearing at Gloucester Crown Court.

The charges, relating to seven women, are alleged to have taken place between 2010 and 2024.

Atkinson, of Imperial Court, Cheltenham will next appear before the court on August 8 and a three-week trial is due to begin on 2 September.

Judge Ian Lawrie KC, The Recorder of Gloucester, remanded the defendant into custody.

The case has been adjourned until 8 August, with a trial date set for 2 September.