A former teacher at a school in Southampton has appeared in court, having been charged with non-recent sexual offences.

Pauline Newton, 77, of Browning Road, Ledbury, Herefordshire, has been charged with four counts of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 16, contrary to the Sexual Offences Act 1956.

She appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Tuesday 14 July) where she denied the offences. She is next to due to appear at Southampton Crown Court on Tuesday 11 August.

The charges relate to offences that are alleged to have taken place between 1971 and 1973, at St Anne’s Convent School in Southampton.

A report was made to police in December 2024. An investigation was carried out by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Operation Marmion team, which investigates allegations of non-recent sexual abuse perpetrated within institutions or by people of prominence.

We would encourage anyone who has been a victim of child sexual abuse to contact police on 101 where you can speak with a police officer in confidence.

Anyone impacted by sexual abuse or any other crime, can access free, confidential and independent help and support by contacting the Victim Care Hub on 0808 178 1641 or Hub.hiow@victimsupport.org.uk Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm.

Outside of those times, or if you live outside Hampshire, you can call 0808 168 9111 or live chat https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help/support-near-you/live-chat/