A HEADTEACHER has appeared in court charged with a series of child sex offences.

Lee Brumby, 61, is set to stand trial over the historic child sex offences next month.

He is currently suspended from his job.

Brumby appeared in Basildon Magistrates Court yesterday, dressed in a dark coloured suit, with a blue tie and wearing glasses.

Brumby, of Wellands, Witham, was headteacher at the Mayflower High School in Billericay, prior to the accusations coming to light.

He spoke only to confirm his name.

The court heard he had indicated a plea of not guilty to all the charges.

Speaking to Brumby, district judge Christopher Williams, said: “These offences are too serious to be dealt with by the magistrates’ court so the matter will be sent to Basildon Crown Court for a pre-trial and preparation hearing on October 13.

“I grant you unconditional bail and you must attend the court on that day.”

An Essex County Council spokesman said: “We are aware that a member of teaching staff at a secondary school in Essex has appeared at court today having been charged with non-recent sexual offences.

“The charges do not relate to any current or previous pupils at the school.

“When allegations were made, the school took immediate action. The male member of staff was suspended, and he has not been at the school since.

“The school has informed parents and carers and has offered support to anyone that may need it.

“As always, the safety and wellbeing of pupils is the utmost priority for both the county council and school.

“Our specialist teams have been working with Essex Police and the school and will continue to support staff, students, parents and carers.

“As this is an on-going court case, the school and county council will not be able to comment further at this time.”