A FORMER chair of the governors at a leading public school is being investigated following an allegation of an historic sexual offence.

Brian Martin, 66, has now stepped aside from his day-to-day involvement with Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate in North Yorkshire while the police investigation continues.

The school, near York, confirmed he had been arrested but said he denied the allegation as being “wholly false”. Mr Martin has not been charged and there has been no allegation concerning current or recent pupils at the school.

Headmaster Steven Jandrell said: “We are naturally sad and concerned that this allegation should have been made.

“Whilst the investigation has no implications for the current welfare and safeguarding of the pupils at the school it is important that it should be thorough and full.

“In the light of this, and in the interests of transparency, Mr Martin has quite rightly decided, for the duration of the investigation, to step aside from his day-to-day involvement with the school.”

He added: “Mr Martin has been a tower of strength in building the sound and outstanding reputation of the school. While we shall miss his advice and support, the school now stands on its own success and has never been stronger.”

Mr Martin said that that whilst the investigation and allegation had come as a “shock and surprise” he was innocent of any alleged misconduct.

“The allegation and any suspicions are wholly false, and I am confident that in time they will be rebutted in every particular,” he said.

A police spokesman said a man was arrested in Harrogate on October 20 on suspicion of indecent assault on a child, conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and voyeurism. He added: “He has been released on bail as enquiries continue.”