William Roache acquitted of one of seven abuse charges

William Roache denies all six charges at Preston Crown Court

Coronation Street star William Roache has been cleared of one of seven sex abuse charges at his trial, on orders of the judge.

Jurors at Preston Crown Court were directed to acquit Mr Roache of the charge after the prosecution offered no further evidence.

Mr Roache, from Wilmslow, Cheshire, is still on trial over two rape and four indecent assault allegations.

He denies the charges, which relate to incidents between 1965 and 1971.

The offences are alleged to have involved five women aged 16 and under.

The allegation the jury were directed to find Mr Roache not guilty of, related to the indecent assault of a 14-year-old girl in 1965.

His defence is due to start on Tuesday.

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