Alleged victim writes letter detailing sexual abuse

A letter written by an alleged sex assault victim to her boyfriend revealed accusations about a man she claims abused her, a court heard.

The trial of Keith Brummitt began at Reading Crown Court on Tuesday.

The 50-year-old faces eight counts of sexual assault of a girl under 16 in Old Windsor, said to have happened within the last decade.

Charles Ward-Jackson, prosecuting, opened the case by telling the jury the allegations against Brummitt came to light in 2011 after the alleged victim wrote a letter addressed to her boyfriend on the back of a bank statement.

In the letter, the girl claimed Brummitt had intentionally touched her on a number of occasions, and that she could only now speak about them.

An extract from the letter, which was read out by Mr Ward-Jackson, said: "I will understand if you react because it is a lot to take in but I feel like I need to tell someone, I love you."

Of Brummitt, Mr Ward-Jackson added: "He initially denied the accusations but later effectively apologised for what he had done."

Police were contacted in January 2012 and interviewed the girl.

Brummitt was arrested by appointment in July 2012 and gave no comment during his interview.

Concluding the opening, Mr Ward-Jackson told the jury the defence would dispute the sexual activity took place, so the burden of proof would be on the prosecution to show it happened.

Brummitt, of High Street, Great Missenden, denies the charges.

The trial continues.