AN 18-year-old has indicated he would plead not guilty to a charge of blackmail, arguing that modern slavery could form part of his defence.

Appearing at Oxford Crown Court via video link on Friday, Abdikani Abdikani, of Holly Park Road, London, accepted a charge of burglary.

But it was unclear in what context he believes modern slavery could aid his defence against the other charge.

Another case management hearing at the same court is scheduled for May 31, Judge Pringle said, adding that the trial was set for August 5.

Abdikani has been told to remain in custody, with the trial expected to last three days.

Also appearing at court on Friday was Jordan Marks, 28, who indicated he would plead guilty to affray in relation to an incident involving a police constable on April 16, 2017.

Marks, appearing via video link from prison in Leicester, is also accused of assault occasioning Actual Bodily Harm - a charge which he indicated he would deny.

Meanwhile, Bartosz Banachowski, 35, and Radoslaw Mikolajczak, 31, both of no fixed abode, were told that they would stand trial at Oxford Crown on Tuesday, August 27.

Both are accused of Grievous Bodily Harm (section 18 and section 20). Their trial is expected to last four days.