Former Grange Hill and London’s Burning Star John Alford Charged with Sex Offences, Faces Trial

Former actor John Alford, known for his roles in Grange Hill and London's Burning, is currently facing trial over charges of sex offences involving a girl under 16.

John Alford, born John Shannon, is accused of multiple sexual offences, including four counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts related to the sexual assault and assault by penetration of another female.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has confirmed that Alford has denied all charges during a plea hearing that took place in September of last year.

A pre-trial review hearing is scheduled for November 18 at St Albans Crown Court, followed by the trial commencing on December 2 at the same court.

The trial is anticipated to last for seven days.

As a young actor, the Glasgow-born John Alford portrayed the character Robbie Wright on the BBC series Grange Hill for a period of five years.

Alford’s most notable role came in the ITV drama London’s Burning, where he portrayed the character Billy Ray from 1993 to 1998.

He is now set to stand trial at St Albans Crown Court in December to address the allegations brought against him.