A NATIONALLY renowned conductor honoured by the Queen and famous for his work with the BBC and the Farnham Youth Choir has been accused of raping a student.

Michael Brewer, 67, of Birmingham, has been charged with one count of rape and six counts of indecent assault after an alleged attack on a teenage girl more than 30 years ago.

The offences are alleged to have taken place between 1977 and 1982 during Mr Brewer's 20 year spell as director of music at the prestigious Chetham's School in Manchester.

His then-wife Hilary, 67, is also facing charges of rape and indecent assault against the same ex-pupil, aged between 13 and 18.

The couple, who are divorced, appeared in court on June 7 and were granted conditional bail to appear at Manchester Crown Court on June 28.

For full story, see this week's Farnham Herald.