A PENSIONER accused of sex attacks on girls dating back to the 1970s told police the allegations were "engineered" against him, a jury heard.

John Pace, aged 69, of Ross Road, Hereford, denies five counts of indecent assault and one of buggery over a 10-year period.

Prosecutor William Rickarby told Worcester Crown Court that the two victims gave police similar stories, but maintained there had been no collusion between them.

He claimed the abuse began when the one victim was aged four. Pace, it was said, partly undressed and got the girl to touch him.

Mr Rickarby said the most serious offence took place in the 1980s which left the victim in intense pain.

The assaults were kept secret until complaints were made to police in September, last year.

"The defendant adamantly denies any misbehaviour. He says the allegations were engineered," said Mr Rickarby.

Pace, who married in 1954, listened to the evidence through a special amplication device because of deafness.

The trial continues.