A priest accused of raping a woman more than 30 years ago is to face trial next year.
The Rev John Anthony Clohosey, 71, did not appear before Newcastle Crown Court due to the coronavirus pandemic, but his barrister indicated he would have pleaded not guilty if he had been at the hearing.
He denies raping the woman in Gateshead in 1986.
Clohosey was priest at Our Lady Immaculate and St Cuthbert’s RC Church in Crook, County Durham, until his suspension last year.
His trial will take place at Newcastle Crown Court on 17th May next year and he was bailed to live near Filey in North Yorkshire.
