Former teacher, 90, denies 1970s sex offences

A former teacher has denied sexual offences against a boy at an independent school about 50 years ago.

Derek Barker has pleaded not guilty to three charges which allegedly took place at Monkton Combe School in Bath in the 1970s when he taught there.

The 90-year-old, of Limpley Stoke, Wiltshire, spoke only to confirm his name and enter his pleas at a plea and case management hearing at Bristol Crown Court earlier.

Mr Barker will remain on bail until his trial begins on 2 November 2026. Judge Euan Ambrose told the court he was adjourning the case and the trial is expected to last for four weeks.

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