Stuart Lingard spared jail sentence after pleading guilty to child sexual offences

Stuart Lingard

Former music teacher Stuart Lingard has avoided jail despite pleading guilty to a number of child sex offences. He pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual activity with a child and one count of sexual activity in the presence of a child.

Lingard, of Barrowdale Drive, Marland, Rochdale, was given a three year supervision order and was put on the sex offenders register for five years. He was also given a sexual prevention order and must complete a sex offender’s treatment programme.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/94452/stuart-lingard-charged-with-child-sex-offences

Lingard’s offences happened in the Rochdale area between 2009 and 2011 when he was working for Rochdale Music Service. During his time with Rochdale Music Service, he is believed to have taught in schools across the borough.

The 38-year-old was sentenced at Leeds Crown Court.

At the time of his arrest in March 2014, he was the band manager and principal cornet player for Brighouse and Rastrick Brass Band.

He also worked as a brass tutor at Waterhead Academy in Oldham from January to March 2014.

Sandra Bowness, Assistant Director for Early Help & Schools at Rochdale Council, said: “These offences only came to light after Stuart left the Music Service in 2013. However, we have significantly tightened safeguarding measures since he was employed by the council.”

Brighouse and Rastrick Brass Band could not be reached for comment.