An Ealing priest formally in charge of a primary school has been charged with multiple sex crimes against young boys.

Father David Pearce, 67, was the former head of the junior section of independent St Benedict's Catholic School.

He was charged last month with 24 counts of indecent assault, sexual touching and gross indecency with six boys aged under 16.

Alleged crimes from 2003 onwards

The alleged offences are said to take place from 2003 onwards - the law was changed around that time making sexual touching an offence.

The Priest was arrested at his home in Ealing Abbey, Charlbury Grove earlier this year in January following allegations from a pupil.  He is believed to have retired from teaching 15 years ago.

He will appear at Ealing Magistrates Court this Friday.