Sex-charge Sir’s conspiracy claim

A SCHOOL teacher cynically took advantage of young pupils by sexually assaulting them under cover of helping them with problems.

Neil Carr (25), of Oldham, abused his position of trust, a trial jury was told.

Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court heard Carr had been a highly thought of teacher beloved of his pupils - until remarks by two young boys were overheard.

Inquiries led to allegations that the teacher had been sexually touching the boys. Within days similar allegations were made by a third boy.

Carr faces 20 charges of sexual assault involving seven boys aged around eight.

Lisa Boocock, prosecuting, said Carr denied ever touching children inappropriately.

“He said it was a pack of lies invented by pupils,” she said. “They had effectively put their heads together and made it up, spurred on by over-zealous parents who were themselves spreading rumours.”

Ms Boocock told the jury of four women and eight men the Crown’s case was that the youngsters were telling the truth: “They had no reason to lie.”.

A court order prevents the naming of the school.

The trial continues.


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