Former Sheffield priest accused of sexually abusing church members

A priest has been summonsed to appear in court to face more than 30 allegations of indecent assault and rape said to have been committed against members of his congregation.

The Reverend Christopher Brain led an Evangelical movement in Sheffield between 1986 and 1995 called the Nine O'Clock Service.

In total he faces 33 allegations of indecent assault and one of rape.

He is due to appear at Sheffield Magistrates' Court on 18 March.

The Nine O'Clock Service was initially held at St Thomas's Church in Crookes before later moving to Ponds Forge in the city centre.

Mr Brain, 66, of Park Road, Wilmslow, is accused of committing sexual offences against 11 women who had joined the movement between 1981 and 1995.

Ch Supt Lindsey Butterfield, of South Yorkshire Police, said an investigation into Mr Brain began in 2020, when a number of women came forward to report the alleged offences.

"Since this time, an investigation team has been working hard to build up a full picture of what is reported to have happened," she said.

"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."

The force said a woman previously arrested in connection to the case remained under investigation.

Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].