A MAN is on trial facing a string of rape and abuse allegations against a woman and children.

Andrew Caldria, of no fixed abode, appeared before Reading Crown Court today (March 18) facing 17 separate charges, all relating to the period between August and October last year.

Among these are five counts of rape against a woman, four of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, two of child cruelty, three of sexual assault against a child, attempted rape of a child, assaulting a child by penetration, and causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

Caldria denies all the charges.

Prosecuting barrister Julie Whitby said that, on one occasion, Caldria gave alcohol to an 11 year old, before attempting to rape the child.

Jurors also heard how another child alleged he was physically abused by Caldria. Mrs Whitby said this was witnessed by neighbours of the child.

The allegations of abuse against Caldria only came to light when it was reported him to a child's teacher.

The court also heard that the adult complainant in the case recalls being repeatedly raped on a single night in late-2023. Mrs Whitby alleged that the woman went to Caldria's bedroom, only for the defendant to overpower her.

The prosecutor told jurors: "He [Caldria] said to her that he wanted sex. He was already naked, and in the bed.

"She told him that she didn't want to do this. He then physically removed her clothing."

The trail continues.