A 72-YEAR-OLD man accused of historical sex abuse over a period of almost two decades has appeared in court.

James Desmond McNamee, of Bunneil, Lisnaskea, is charged with 13 counts of indecently assaulting a female and a further five counts of gross indecency with, or towards, a child.

The alleged offences occurred between November 19, 1975 and September 1, 1993.

There are two alleged victims, who cannot be named to protect their identities.

McNamee appeared before Fermanagh Magistrates Court for a Preliminary Enquiry in his case.

A Public Prosecution Service (PPS) representative told the court that, based on the papers submitted, the defendant had a case to answer.

Defending solicitor, Myles McManus, told the court that this was not formally conceded, but added he would not be making any contrary submissions at this time.

McNamee then declined to answer the charges against him at this stage.

He further declined at this time to give evidence himself, call any witnesses or tender a written statement of a witness.

District judge, Nigel Broderick, released the defendant on his own bail of £500 to appear before Dungannon Crown Court for his arraignment on Thursday, November 23.

Under the terms of his bail, McNamee must reside at his home address and is banned from having any contact, either directly or indirectly, with the complainants.