Former teacher accused of abusing children from two separate primary schools in Belfast

The 76-year-old man is also facing prosecution for allegedly molesting his own daughter as part of a campaign of historic offences.

He cannot be named and the schools involved are not being identified to ensure the protection of any complainants.

The pensioner has been charged with gross indecency towards unknown children from the two primary schools - one located in south Belfast and the other based in the north of the city.

The alleged offences were committed sometime over a 30-year period from 1975 to 2005.

He is further accused of gross indecency, buggery and attempted buggery of his daughter on dates between 1983 and 1985.

Appearing in the dock at Belfast Magistrates’ Court in handcuffs and a grey tracksuit, the accused confirmed he understood the allegations against him.

Defence solicitor Eoghan McKenna did not seek to challenge the evidence on which his client had been charged or apply for bail at this stage.

“There are a number of practical issues that need to be investigated,” Mr McKenna told the court.

District Judge Steven Keown remanded the defendant in custody until March 13.