A GREENGROCER accused of sexual assault groped four women and begged them for kisses, a court heard.

Former Cub Scout leader Raymond Grenfell of High Street, Crickhowell, denies the allegations made against him by four separate women.

The 69-year-old is accused of making inappropriate comments such as "nice pair you’ve got there" and "I’d like make love to you" to the women, who cannot be named.

Brecon Magistrates’ Court heard how the former church warden is also accused of touching the breasts of three of the women as well as forcing kisses upon them.

Grenfell, described as a "tactile man", claims the allegations were nothing more that "just friendly banter".

The allegations against Grenfell are said to have occurred between 2007 and 2014. The women said they kept the alleged attacks secret as they feared no one would believe them as the defendant had been a prominent resident in the town for over 40 years.

Prosecutor Kevin Challinor said that Grenfell told officers during interview that "flirting is a way of being friendly with customers".

David Elias defending the former school governor described his actions as "banter" and denied his client had touched any of the women for his own sexual gratification.

Grenfell denies all four counts of sexual assault and the trial was adjourned and will resume next month.