THE trial of a DJ and football club match day announcer charged with child sex offences has got underway.
Mark Page pleaded not guilty to five counts of arranging or facilitating the commission of a child sex offence on August 8, 2016.
The 63-year-old former Radio 1 DJ and Middlesbrough FC match day announcer is accused of asking a young girl to expose her genitals over a webcam from the Philippines.
Page set up and run forces station radio Garrison FM, which had a base at Catterick, in 2001 and worked as a presenter until 2013.
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Following his appearance at Teesside Magistrates' Court, his solicitor Henri Brandman said: "Mr Page vehemently denies the alleged offences and will vigorously defend himself against the charges.
"He has had business, military and charitable interests in the Philippines for a number of years."
Page, of Snowdrop Close, Stockton, spoke only to confirm his identity and enter not guilty pleas to the charges.
The jury was sworn during the morning session and the prosecution will open its case this afternoon (Monday 28).
The trial continues.
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