Preston tutor, 74, who used to work in Lytham faces trial over indecent assault allegations

Andrew Gudgeon, of Dawnay Road, Ribbleton, Preston, worked as a private tutor from his home, and also used to work for Queen Mary’s School in Lytham.

It is understood he spent some time living in the Philippines with his wife and teaching there.

The allegations, which he denies, date as far back as the 1980s.

The complainants cannot be identified for legal reasons.

The 74-year-old was charged with 15 offences and appeared before Blackpool Magistrates’ Court.

His case was then committed to Preston Crown Court.

During a hearing by video link on December 22, Judge Simon Medland QC set a trial date for January 31, 2022.

Gudgeon will next appear before the court for a hearing on October 27 this year.

Many trials are being set for 2022 due to the current backlog of delayed cases affecting the criminal courts.

There were 12,945 outstanding cases in the area’s magistrates courts by the end of September, with 1,249 at the crown courts.

(proceeding)