A RETIRED Preston headteacher has been arrested and charged with serious sexual assaults against a young boy.

William Stones, aged 72, of New Longton, was headmaster of Ribbleton Avenue Methodist Junior School until he retired in 1987 after almost 30 years at the school on Emerson Road. The alleged offences date back from 1974 to well into the 1980s.

Police officers are keen to stress that the alleged incidents do not involve any staff or pupils currently at the school.

Mr Stones has been released on bail and will appear before Preston Magistrates on May 29. Lancashire Constabulary's Family Protection Unit is working with the county council's education and social services department to trace and interview former pupils of the school. Officers are anxious to hear from anyone with any relevant information. Telephone 209107 with any information which will be dealt with in the strictest confidence.

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