Bennell charged on abuse claims

Former football coach Barry Bennell has been charged with 21 further counts of historical child sexual abuse.

The charges relate to alleged offences against four complainants between 1983 and 1991.

Bennell, 63, was a youth coach with English Football League club Crewe Alexandra.

He has been charged with 41 total offences relating to eight male complainants. He pleaded not guilty to 20 charges in March.

A statement released by the Crown Prosecution Service read: "The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against Mr Bennell are live and that he has a right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice ongoing proceedings."

Bennell will appear via video link at South Cheshire Magistrates' Court on May 17 in relation to his latest charges. He is due to appear at Chester Crown Court on July 3 in relation to the 20 previous charges.