A PRIEST from Wilmslow faces 34 sexual offence charges.

The Rev Christopher Brain has been summonsed to court to face a string of non-recent sexual offences against 11 victims, who were all members of his congregation.

The alleged offences relate to an Evangelical movement called the Nine O’Clock Service he led in Sheffield between 1986 and 1995.

Now 66 and living on Park Road in Wilmslow, Brain is alleged to have committed sexual offences against 11 women who had joined the movement, which was held at St Thomas’s Church in Crookes and later Ponds Forge in the city centre.

He has been charged with one count of rape and 33 counts of indecent assault, which are alleged to have been committed between 1981 and 1995.

As such, he has been summonsed to attend Sheffield Magistrates Court on March 18.

Chief Superintendent Lindsey Butterfield, District Commander for Sheffield, said: “These charges follow a complex and wide-ranging investigation into events dating back 30 or more years.

“The police investigation was launched in 2020, when a number of victims came forward to report the allegations to us. Since this time, an investigation team has been working hard to build up a full picture of what is reported to have happened.

“We understand this is a concerning case and one which will have an impact upon individuals and communities. We will continue to provide appropriate support and updates to those involved.”

A woman previously arrested in connection to the case remains under investigation.

As enquiries continue, South Yorkshire Police are appealing for any further potential victims of witnesses to come forward.

Information can be reported via the force’s online live chat, their online portal, or by calling 101 and quoting investigation number 14/174466/19.

 Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.