A children's author raped one girl and indecently assaulted others who were fascinated by his writings, a jury was told yesterday.

It is alleged William Mayne, who wrote books revolving around the legend of King Arthur, befriended the youngsters before carrying out the sex attacks during the 1960s and early 1970s.

A jury at Teesside Crown Court was told how the 76-year-old, known in literary circles for his trilogy called Earthfasts, Cradlefasts and Candlefasts, was a well-known author at the time of the alleged assaults.

Mr Mayne, who also wrote for the BBC, had homes in Thornton Rust and Ripon, North Yorkshire, and in London.

The court heard how between July 11, 1960, and May 24, 1975, he befriended many of his victims' families before preying on the young girls, aged from six to 16.

Richard Mansel, prosecuting, said the abuse ranged from inappropriate touching to sexual intercourse.

It is alleged that between July 11, 1960, and July 11, 1965, he raped one girl aged between eight and 13.

The jury was told that Mr Mayne befriended her family and even gave her nicknames before raping her.

It is alleged he also carried out a separate attack on the girl between the same dates and that he systematically abused her over several years.

Mr Mansell said: "The prosecution allege that each count of rape is an example or specimen of the ongoing abuse."

He said that eight girls, many now in their late forties and early fifties, became fascinated by the author, who often included them in his writings.

One contacted police in 1999 and Mr Mayne, of Parson Hill, Thornton Rust, denied any wrong doing.

It was decided not to proceed with a case but more victims came forward in May last year. He was charged with 15 offences against eight different alleged victims.

When questioned by police, the author said the claims were total fabrication.

Mr Mayne denies two charges of rape against a female under 13 between July 11, 1960, and July 11, 1965, and 13 counts of indecent assault against seven other youngsters between March 23, 1960, and May 24, 1975.

The trial continues.