Former Winchester mayor charged with sexually assaulting teenage girl
The alleged incident took place during the city's fireworks event
A former mayor of Winchester has been charged with the sexual assault of a teenage girl during a fireworks display he was attending as an official guest.
Derek Green, who did not stand for re-election this year after the allegation was made, is alleged to have touched the 16-year-old girl inappropriately over her clothing at the fireworks display in the Hampshire city on November 5 2022.
The 67-year-old of Battery Hill, Winchester, has been ordered by postal requisition to appear at Basingstoke Magistrates' Court on January 1st to face a charge of sexual assault.
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said:
"A man is due to appear in court to face an allegation of a sexual offence against a teenage girl in Winchester.
"It was reported that a 16-year-old girl was touched inappropriately over clothing at the Winchester Bonfire and Fireworks display at River Park on Saturday November 5 2022.
"Derek Green, 67, of Battery Hill, Winchester, will face a charge of sexual assault on a female at Basingstoke Magistrates' Court on Thursday 11 January following postal requisition."
The force spokesman added:
"Mr Green was attending the event as the mayor of Winchester, and the incident is alleged to have occurred while in attendance on official duty.
"He was stood down from further engagements and did not stand for re-election in May 2023."
Green became the 823rd Mayor of Winchester when he was appointed to the role in May 2022.
He said at the time: "Being elected as Mayor of Winchester is a great honour and I am looking forward to embracing the year ahead, supporting local businesses, events, as well as pushing forward with my charity initiatives."
The mayoralty of Winchester dates back to 1200 making it the second oldest in England.
Guests at the ceremony when Green was appointed included the High Steward of Winchester, Lady Mary Fagan, and the Honorary Recorder of Winchester, Judge Angela Morris.