A former teacher at Herne Bay High School has been charged with seven counts of sexual activity with a child.

Robert Appleby, 42, of Stablegate Mews, Canterbury, appeared at Margate Magistrates court yesterday.

He was also charged with a further count of making indecent photographs of a child. The alleged offences took place between 2005 and 2010.

Herne Bay High School confirmed that the case related to a former teacher at the school, but it was unable to comment further on the issue.

A letter from principal Dr Claire Owen has been issued to parents of children at the school explaining the situation surrounding the allegations.

The case has been sent to Canterbury crown court next month, with the former teacher withholding making a plea pending his court appearance.