A FORMER teacher at primary schools in York has been charged with a string of offences involving children.

The 31-year-old is facing a total of 23 charges, including sexual activity with a boy under 13.

Parents of youngsters at the three York schools where he taught have all been sent letters making them aware of the allegations.

The man, who cannot be named, appeared before magistrates in York on Friday, and the charges included possessing indecent images, voyeurism, making indecent images and sexual touching.

The teacher was granted conditional court bail to an address outside the county and will appear before the city’s magistrates again on May 9 for a committal hearing.

City of York Council’s assistant director Eoin Rush has written to parents at the schools where the man taught.

"North Yorkshire Police have confirmed that if any parent has not already been contacted by them, it is reasonable to assume that their child has not been affected by this man's alleged behaviour,” he wrote.

“However, it is right to point out that police enquiries are ongoing and if as a result of these enquiries any further concerns are uncovered the police will be in contact with anyone affected directly.”

One parent told the BBC: “I don't think the concern is so much that people's children have necessarily been directly involved.

“I think, for me, the concern is that my child likes this teacher, enjoyed being taught by this teacher, and just feels slightly bewildered and shocked at it - not just what's happened but by all the attention as well.”

Police have declined to make any comment as the case is active.