Teacher suspended in pupil sex assault probe

A female high school teacher has been suspended amid allegations that she had a sexual relationship with a 13-year-old girl.

Caroline French, 37, of St Annes, Lancashire, appeared before Blackpool Magistrates, accused of indecently assaulting the teenager and committing an act of gross indecency.

French was suspended from her current school in Blackpool following the claims which relate to another school in the town where the defendant was employed.

David Lund, Blackpool Council's executive director for children's services said: "I can confirm that a member of teaching staff remains suspended pending the outcome of a criminal investigation.

"As this is a live case, it is inappropriate for me to comment further other than to say that the council is providing support to the school and working with the police, as appropriate.

"A helpline has been set up for any students or parents who may have specific concerns relating to the case and details are being shared via the schools."

French will next appear at Blackpool Magistrates' Court on April 20.