ANDREW BALDWIN FROM FOREST OF DEAN ESCAPES SCHOOL GYM BAN DESPITE PAEDOPHILE CONVICTION

In a controversial development that has sparked widespread outrage, Andrew Baldwin, a man with a criminal history involving child abuse, continues to access a public gym located on the premises of Whitecross School in Lydney, within the Forest of Dean. Baldwin, aged 43, was convicted in 1999 of molesting three young girls aged 12 and 13. Despite his criminal record, authorities have permitted him to use the gym facilities, citing concerns over potential human rights violations if he were barred from doing so.

Whitecross School, a comprehensive institution serving students aged 11 to 16, is situated adjacent to the gym, which is part of the Whitecross Leisure Centre managed by the local council. The leisure centre's facilities, including squash courts and a sports hall, are primarily used by the public during evenings and weekends. However, the 'lifestyle fitness suite' within the centre opens daily at 9 am, allowing unrestricted access to the public during those hours.

Parents and concerned community members have expressed their alarm over Baldwin’s presence at the gym. Four weeks ago, they raised their concerns, claiming that the school and local authorities were hesitant to impose restrictions on Baldwin’s access, fearing legal repercussions related to his human rights. This stance has been met with criticism, especially given the gym’s proximity to children’s changing rooms, which raises serious safety concerns.

Anthony Callaghan, aged 40, whose 15-year-old daughter attends Whitecross School, was among the first to confront Baldwin when he saw him at the gym. According to Callaghan, Baldwin immediately reported the incident to the gym’s receptionist. Callaghan voiced his frustration, stating, “It’s so ridiculous, you couldn’t make it up. The gym is for over-16s but it is right on the school premises and you have to go down the corridor and past the boys’ and girls’ changing rooms to get there.”

He further explained that he frequently visits the gym, often walking past girls in PE kits and noticing that the changing room doors are sometimes left ajar. When he raised his concerns with the headmaster, David Gaston, he was told that legal advice from solicitors indicated that banning Baldwin from the gym during school hours would breach his human rights. Callaghan questioned this stance, asking, “Well, if that’s the case, what about the human rights of the pupils?”

The ongoing situation has prompted discussions between Whitecross School’s administration and Forest of Dean District Council. They are currently consulting legal experts to determine the best course of action. One potential solution under consideration is restricting Baldwin’s access to the gym during school hours to ensure student safety.

Headmaster David Gaston emphasized the importance of student welfare, stating, “The safety of students is the absolute priority of the school and any decision will take their welfare into account.” Meanwhile, a council spokesperson noted that they are unable to comment further as they await definitive legal advice from Shire Hall.

Child protection charity Kidscape has publicly condemned the situation, with director Dr. Michelle Elliott calling for immediate action. She stated, “This totally defies common sense. Men who have been convicted of abusing a child should not be on school premises.” The controversy continues to unfold as community members and authorities grapple with balancing legal rights and the safety of young students in the Forest of Dean area.