Trial of ex-London’s Burning actor John Alford for ‘child sex offences’ is delayed after he’s taken to hospital
A TRIAL for a former London’s Burning star accused of child sex offences has been delayed after he was taken to hospital.
John Alford, who also appeared on Grange Hill, has been accused of targeting a girl aged under 16.
The 53-year-old – real name John Shannon – is also charged with sexually assaulting a second female.
Alford was due to face a seven-day trial at St Albans Crown Court today.
But the case has been adjourned until a date to be set after he was taken to hospital.
The dad-of-two previously pleaded not guilty to four counts of sexual activity with a child.
He has also denied one count of sexual assault and another of sexual assault by penetration relating to the second complainant.
Alford first shot to fame as a teenager when he landed the role of Robbie Wright on Grange Hill.
The Glasgow-born star played the role in the seminal BBC show for five years.
He starred alongside Simone Hyams and George Christopher and took part in the anti-drugs single Just Say No.
Between 1993 and 1998, Alford appeared in long-running drama London‘s Burning as Billy Ray.
He later had a role in film Mike Bassett: England Manager, Casualty and Brit flick The Hatton Garden Job.
Alford also enjoyed a short-lived pop career – with three singles reaching the UK Top 30.
These included debut single Smoke In Your Eyes, followed by Blue Moon and Only You.
Away from the screen, Alford worked as a scaffolder and minicab driver.