A PENSIONER accused of making explicit sexual suggestions to a girl he believed was aged 12, but was a police decoy, will stand trial.

Neil Gillies, of St James's Street, Newport, denied attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child aged under 13 years, when he appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (February 6).

He also pleaded not guilty to breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and failing to comply with the notification requirements of the Sex Offenders' Register, by not registering a user name for internet use.  

The offences are alleged to have taken place between October 12 and November 11 last year.

The 74-year-old was remanded in custody to reappear for a plea and trial preparation hearing, at the Isle of Wight Crown Court, on March 11.