‘Flashing’ accusation - cleaner suspended

A CLEANER at an Oldham secondary school has been suspended from his job amid allegations that he indecently exposed himself in school.

Police are investigating after the 68-year-old man, who works part time at the school, was told not to enter the grounds when he reported for work on Thursday and handed a letter telling him he was suspended with immediate effect.

The accused, who is employed on behalf of the school by an outside contractor, also works part time for Oldham Council, cleaning offices in a local park and sports centre and he has also been suspended from this role.

But, speaking exclusively to the Chronicle, he insisted that he is innocent and that he was “totally gobsmacked”.

“I completely refute these allegations,” he said.

“I can categorically state that I would never do anything like that and my stomach has been churning ever since Thursday.

“I have worked in these two jobs for the last 11 years and have a totally unblemished record.

“I felt like a criminal when I was met at the school gates the way I was. I felt like I had been shot. I was just so shocked.

“I just want everything to be resolved as soon as possible because I’m in limbo at the moment.”

The school and the council have declined to comment on the allegations.

Councillor Kay Knox, Cabinet member for children, young people and families, said: “It is not council policy to comment on individual cases.

“I can confirm, however, that I am satisfied that the human resources and, in particular, the safeguarding policies have been put in place and are robust and effective enough to deal with any issue that may arise.”