Russell Brand arrives at court for start of rape trial

British comedian Russell Brand has arrived in court for the start of his trial on rape and sexual assault charges.

The 51-year-old is accused of groping women and forcing them into sexual acts in allegations spanning 10 years from 1999 to 2009.

He denies three charges of rape, three counts of sexual assaults, and one allegation of indecent assault, made by six women.

Jury selection is expected to begin this morning, for a trial which could last up to 10 weeks.

At around 8.45am, Mr Brand arrived outside Southwark Crown Court in central London with his wife.

Mr Brand said nothing to members of the press as he walked into the courthouse.

His case is being overseen by High Court judge Mr Justice Joel Bennathan, with the hearing set to start at 9.30am.