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 ex-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.