DEREK BARKER ACCUSED OF SEXUAL OFFENCES AT MONKTON COMBE SCHOOL IN BATH

A 90-year-old man named Derek Barker has made a court appearance in connection with serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving a boy at an independent school in Bath nearly five decades ago. The charges stem from incidents that allegedly took place at Monkton Combe School during the 1970s, a period when Mr. Barker was employed as a teacher at the institution.

Mr. Barker, who currently resides in Limpley Stoke, Wiltshire, appeared before Bath Magistrates' Court to formally acknowledge his identity, age, and residential address. The brief hearing revealed that the allegations against him are of a nature that warrants a higher level of judicial scrutiny, and as a result, the case was referred to the crown court for a full trial.

During the proceedings, magistrates decided that the charges are sufficiently serious to be dealt with at a higher court, and they ordered the case to be transferred accordingly. Mr. Barker was granted unconditional bail, allowing him to remain free until his next court appearance. He is scheduled to appear at Bristol Crown Court on the 27th of June, where the trial is expected to commence next month.

These developments mark a significant chapter in the ongoing legal process related to historical abuse allegations, and the case continues to attract public and media attention given the long elapsed time since the alleged offences occurred.