A trial date has been set for a man charged with rape and a sexual assault. Ryan Dean Graham (40), of Kirkley Drive, Ponteland, previously appeared at North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on March 12 accused of raping a woman and sexually assaulting a woman. It is alleged Graham carried out both offences in Newcastle on December 7, 2018. At a hearing at Newcastle Crown Court today (April 9), which Graham was excused from attending, his lawyer, Lorraine Mustard, indicated a not guilty plea. Judge Robert Spragg set a trial date of April 25 2022. It is estimated the trial will take four days. The court heard a pre-trial hearing will take place on November 1, which Graham must attend.