Jimmy Savile's former driver David Smith denies sex offences

The first man to be charged in the police inquiry prompted by claims into disgraced TV presenter Jimmy Savile has denied a string of sex offences.

David Smith, 66, is accused of attacking a 12-year-old boy in the summer of 1984.

The former driver appeared at London's Southwark Crown Court today.

Smith, of Effingham Road, Lewisham, south east London, denied two counts of indecent assault and two of gross indecency, all between June 1 and July 21 1984.

He also denied a claim of buggery against the boy between July 1 and 21 1984.

He was remanded on bail and will return to the court on October 28 for trial.

Smith was the first person to be charged under Operation Yewtree - the national investigation launched after claims were made against Savile.

Scotland Yard has led the probe and separated its inquiries into those involving Savile, those involving Savile and others, and those involving others. Smith was investigated under the "others" strand.

PA