The trial of a retired priest accused of historical sex abuse will now take place next year.

Francis Moore, 82, is charged with crimes against three boys between 1977 and 1981.

He also allegedly indecently assaulted a student priest between 1995 and 1996.

Moore had been due to stand trial next month.

But, prosecutor Shanti Maguire today asked for the case to be adjourned at a hearing at the High Court in Glasgow.

Judge Lord Beckett set a new date with a trial now expected to start early next year.

The offences are said to have occurred at a number of locations in North and South Ayrshire including Irvine Beach.

Moore denies the charges.

The pensioner, of Largs, North Ayrshire, had his bail continued meantime.