A former Stoke-on-Trent teacher who was previously jailed after caning a schoolboy's bare bottom has admitted a number of further historic sexual offences involving children. The former teacher appeared before the court and pleaded guilty to additional charges as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations dating back several decades. The offences relate to his time working in education, with prosecutors saying the latest admissions form part of a wider investigation into historic abuse.

The defendant had already been sentenced to prison in connection with earlier offences, including the highly publicised case involving the physical punishment of a pupil. During the latest hearing, the court heard that further victims had come forward, leading investigators to uncover additional offences. The guilty pleas mean there will now be no trial for the latest charges, with the case moving directly to the sentencing stage. The judge adjourned proceedings to allow for the preparation of reports before a final sentence is handed down.

The court was told that the offences took place many years ago, but the impact on those affected has lasted a lifetime. Prosecutors said the admissions spared victims from having to give evidence at a trial, while the judge acknowledged the seriousness of the offences and indicated that all previous convictions would be taken into account when deciding the appropriate sentence. The former teacher remains in custody ahead of the sentencing hearing.

The case is the latest in a series of historic child abuse prosecutions that have been brought before the courts in recent years, reflecting the continued efforts of police and prosecutors to investigate allegations regardless of how much time has passed. Authorities have repeatedly urged anyone who has experienced abuse, or has information that could assist ongoing investigations, to come forward, stressing that victims will be listened to and supported throughout the legal process.