A Stevenage man has been charged with a series of sexual offences against children.

Colin Phillips, 56, of Bronte Paths in Stevenage, was arrested on Thursday, November 3, and subsequently charged with a number of offences which took place between February and July 2022.

The charges are: Rape of a boy under 13, two counts of sexual assault by touching of a boy under 13, sexual assault by touching of a girl under 13, engaging in sexual activity with a boy under 13, and engaging in sexual activity with a girl under 13.

He appeared at St Albans Magistrates’ Court yesterday (November 9) where he was remanded in custody.

He is due to next appear at St Albans Crown Court on Monday, December 12.

Hertfordshire police advise anyone who has been a victim of child abuse, or thinks a child is being abused, to contact police immediately. A report can be made in confidence.

You can report online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to a police operator via their online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101.

In addition, anyone in Hertfordshire who has experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence can contact the Herts Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for practical and emotional support.

The centre can arrange face-to-face support, sexual health referrals, and provide forensic medical examinations for those who want them.

To contact Herts SARC, call the 24/7 helpline on 0808 178 4448, email Herts.SARC@nhs.net or visit www.hertssarc.org.