A CATHOLIC priest charged with ten counts of indecent assault on boys is to have his case heard in Newcastle Crown Court.

Father William Jacks, of Carmel Road South, Darlington appeared before Gateshead magistrates for the fourth time yesterday, where it was decided he should be tried at crown court.

Fr Jacks, 48, is charged with nine counts of indecent assault and one count of gross indecency against boys under 16, between 1987 and 1991.

The priest was serving at St Joseph's Church at Highfield, Rowlands Gill, near Gateshead, before he was charged.

Conditional bail has been granted.

Fr Jacks will appear at Newcastle Crown Court for a plea and direction hearing