Former BBC presenter denies child sex charges

Michael Souter, 59, of Low Bungay Road, Loddon, Norfolk, has been charged with 18 offences relating to boys, plus an offence against a man and one against a woman.

The charges relate to six different boys, including under-14s, and two adults and include serious sexual offences and indecent assault.

The alleged offences date between 1979 and 1999 and happened in Norfolk.

The earlier charges overlap with Souter’s career at the BBC in the 1980s, during which he helped launch Radio Norfolk including a stint presenting the breakfast show.

Speaking after his first appearance at Norwich Magistrates’ Court yesterday morning, Souter said: “I am well aware this case is a stressful experience for almost everybody concerned, not just me.

“Irrespective of innocence or guilt, people have judged me before one word has been given in evidence in a court of law.

“Many people wonder how much coverage would have been given both in the UK and around the world if the letters ‘BBC’ had not formed part of my CV.”

He added: “I look forward to being able to prove my innocence and put this awful episode behind me.”

District Judge Peter Veits bailed Souter to appear at Norwich Crown Court on December 14.