Ex-Winchester mayor denies sex assault charge at fireworks display

Emily Ford & PA MediaBBC News, Southampton
News imageAndrew Matthews/PA Wire Derek GreenAndrew Matthews/PA Wire
Derek Green, pictured before a previous hearing at Basingstoke Magistrates' Court, denies sexual assault

A former mayor has denied sexually assaulting a girl during a fireworks display while on official duty.

Ex-Winchester mayor Derek Green is accused of touching the 16-year-old inappropriately over her clothing at the event on 5 November 2022.

The 67-year-old, of Battery Hill, pleaded not guilty at Bristol Crown Court to one count of sexual assault.

A four-day trial is set for 10 March 2025. Mr Green was released on unconditional bail.

Mr Green became the 823rd Mayor of Winchester in May 2022, but later stood down.

The mayoralty of Winchester dates back to 1200, making it the second oldest in England.

News imagePresentational grey line

Follow BBC South on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2240.