Russell Brand arrives at court for start of rape trial

Image source, ReutersImage caption, Russell Brand arrived at court on Monday for the start of his trial wearing a navy suit and sunglasses

Russell Brand has arrived at court for the start of his rape and sexual assault trial.

The 51-year-old comedian and actor is facing several charges of rape and sexual assault against six women, which are alleged to have occurred between 1999 and 2009.

The trial at Southwark Crown Court, which could last up to 10 weeks, is expected to begin with the process of jury selection on Monday morning.

Brand pleaded not guilty to the charges during pre-trial hearings.

The comedian and actor arrived at court on Monday wearing a navy suit and sunglasses.

He has been charged with three counts of rape, three charges of sexual assault and one allegation of indecent assault.

Image source, Getty ImagesImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Brand previously denied all seven charges of rape and sexual assault

He rose to fame as a stand-up comedian and became a household name as host of TV shows such as Big Brother's Big Mouth, and with his own radio programmes on stations including BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music.

Brand went on to establish a Hollywood career, starring in films including Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him To The Greek. In recent years, he has turned to podcasting.