A FORMER school cook has been charged with a number of historic child abuse offences.

Michael Norman Smith, of Willow Way, Sandown, appeared before the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (May 11).

The 57-year-old is charged with two counts of indecent assault on child, between January 1, 1997, and December 31, 2001.

Isle of Wight County Press:

He is also charged with three counts of gross indecency with a child, during the same period of time.

His case was adjourned to June 14 at the Isle of Wight Crown Court.

He was granted unconditional bail.