Rolf Harris will not appear in court for sex abuse trial because of age and poor health, judge rules

The decision could be legal first

Rolf Harris arrives at Southwark Crown Court in central London on 4 July

Rolf Harris has been spared from having to physically appear in court in his sex assault trial because of his age, in what could be a legal first.

The former entertainer, 86, will follow proceedings at Southwark Crown Court in London via a video link from Stafford Prison, a judge has ruled.

Harris is accused of attacking seven women and girls, including a child under the age of 13. Some of the offences were allegedly committed at the BBC Television Centre in west London.

He has previously pleaded not guilty to seven counts of indecent assault and one alternative charge of sexual assault. His trial is due to begin in January.

Harris’ defence lawyer Steve Vullo QC said the judge could allow a defendant to appear via video link in “exceptional circumstances”. Mr Vullo argued Harris’ case was exceptional because of his age.

“He is an 86-year-old man and he is settled where he is.

“If he is to attend this trial in person he is likely to be transferred to Wandsworth, which causes him some trepidation.

“We would have to say it is exceptional and we say it is exceptional.”

Judge McCreath told the court he has no evidence of a defendant appearing at their own trial through a video link. He agreed Harris “is an elderly man, not in the best of health, who will be much more effectively be able to participate in his trial by following it and giving evidence - if he elects to do so - than if he was here”.

But he warned Mr Vullo: “If the technology breaks down then on his own head be it. We will make progress in the trial in his temporary absence.”

Additional reporting by the Press Association