THE trial of a Northwich businessman accused of rape is set to begin at Chester Crown Court today (Monday, August 22).

Benjamin James Kershaw has previously pleaded not guilty to the rape of a woman on January 24, 2018.

The 41-year-old was due to stand trial on June 27 but the matter was adjourned due to strike action being taken by criminal barristers.

The trial of Kershaw, of Bishops Way in Winnington is scheduled to last for four days.

At the time of the adjournment, Judge Patrick Thompson said he did not want the case to be put back to a date beyond November, as the court was already listing cases to be heard in May 2023.

He added the serious nature of the case meant it was in the interests of both the complainant and the defendant for the trial to take place sooner rather than later.

Kershaw was bailed on the same conditions as before, that is not to contact the complainant, who cannot be identified.