A TEACHING assistant from Blackburn is set to appear in court charged with sexually abusing girls.

David Billington, 46, of Shadsworth Road, has been charged with six offences of sexual touching girls under 13.

Police said the charges relate to five girls and are alleged to have taken place between September 2012 and February 2016.

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Billington worked at St Antony's R C Primary, Shadsworth Road, in Blackburn.

Headteacher Heather McGowan said Billington was immediately suspended as soon as the allegations came to light, in line with safeguarding procedures.

She added: “The school has cooperated fully with the police during this case and will, where appropriate, continue to do so.

“It would not be appropriate for the school to make any further comment in relation to the matter while the case is ongoing.

“We would like parents to be assured that the school has robust safeguarding policies in place and that the welfare of the children is paramount to the school.

"All working within the school will continue to endeavour that everything possible is in place to ensure that the children are safe and happy in our care.”

Linda Clegg, director of Children’s Services at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “The safety and protection of children and young people is our top priority and we are supporting the school.

"The member of staff allegedly involved was suspended earlier this year following the allegations. We are cooperating fully with the police on this.

“With the police case ongoing it would not be appropriate for us to comment further at this stage.”