Nursery worker in court over rapes of toddlers

Nathan Bennett is charged with two counts of raping a child under 13

A nursery worker has appeared in court after being charged with multiple sexual offences against children in his care.

Nathan Bennett, 30, of Corston near Bath, Somerset, appeared at Bristol Crown Court earlier, where he did not enter a plea.

He was arrested on 14 August following a six-month investigation by specialist officers. The allegations all relate to incidents in Bristol earlier this year.

A case management hearing will take place on 14 November and a provisional trial date has been set for 2 February next year.

Mr Bennett is charged with two counts of rape and four counts of causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

He is additionally charged with 12 counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, and four counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child.

Barrister Virginia Cornwall said the jury had around 30 minutes of video footage to look through in connection with the case.

Mr Bennett has been remanded in custody but there may be an application for bail in the future.

The children's families are aware and are being supported.