Man, 80, denies trying to rape woman, 92
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An 80-year-old man today denied trying to rape a 92-year-old woman, a court official said.
Cyril Hewitt, of Hawthorne Way, Silsoe, Bedfordshire, was charged in December, almost 10 years after the elderly woman was allegedly sexually assaulted by a man who pushed his way into her home, apparently armed with a handgun.
Hewitt today appeared at Luton Crown Court, where he pleaded not guilty to attempted rape, robbery and possession of a firearm.
A charge of aggravated burglary has been dropped, the court said.
He was told he would stand trial on November 1 and was released on bail.
The alleged offence happened in Ampthill, Bedfordshire, on January 7 2000, Bedfordshire Police have said.
The alleged victim died in November 2005.