Chris Bowman a Decathalon coach accused of sexually abusing 11-year-old boy has trial delayed so he can train athlete for Olympics

A sports coach accused of sexual activity with an 11-year-old boy has had his trial delayed - so he can train an athlete for the Olympics.

Decathlon trainer Chris Bowman, 48, who has been charged with abusing the youngster while in a position of trust.

The coach - who is mentoring Commonwealth Games medallist decathlete Martin Brockman - was told he would face trial after denying the charge.

But Judge Michael Carroll, sitting at Maidstone Crown Court in Kent, put his trial back until the end of August after hearing that he was preparing Brockman for the Olympics.

Friday's decision was today branded a ‘disgrace’ by outraged child protection groups.

Peter Saunders, founder of the National Association for the People Abused in Childhood, said: ‘It really is quite a bewildering decision.

‘This man is still innocent until proven guilty, but given the nature of the alleged offence it would be wholly inappropriate for him to stay in his position as a sports coach. Read More