THE former head teacher of a top Ribble Valley preparatory school was due to go on trial today on charges of indecently assaulting pupils.

Robert Francis O'Brien, 57, of Fellside Farm, Kemple End, Stonyhurst, is accused of six counts of indecently assaulting boys under the age of 14.

All of the alleged offences are said to have taken place at St Mary's Hall preparatory school, the feeder school for Stonyhurst College, four in the early 70s and two between September, 1997 and June, 1998.

The trial had been due to be heard at Preston but moved to Carlisle Crown Court and is expected to last several weeks.

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