A FORMER Bordon teacher has appeared in court in relation to 46 alleged sex offences.

Timothy Bleach, 76, of Hazel Walk, Petersfield, appeared at Portsmouth Crown Court on Monday, having been charged in February with offences including rape, gross indecency and indecent assault. No pleas were entered.

The offences relate to alleged acts involving six girls under age 13 in the 1970s, during which time Mr Bleach was a teacher at Weyford Junior School in Bordon.

He is due to appear at another hearing on June 27, when it is expected that he will enter a plea.

The charges form part of Hampshire Constabulary’s ongoing review of non-recent child-sexual-exploitation and abuse cases. This is following a national police action plan on such cases, and a request by the police and crime commissioner to examine the situation locally. The review includes a re-examination of available evidence, and the offer of additional support alongside partner agencies to those affected by sexual exploitation and abuse.

Anyone with information can call Operation Marmion detectives at Hampshire Constabulary on 101 or by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555111.