Durham head teacher Anne Lakey denies boy sex charges
A County Durham head teacher has pleaded not guilty to sex offences against a boy, dating back 25 years.
Anne Lakey is currently suspended from her post as chief executive of the Durham Federation of Schools. The allegations do not relate to a pupil.
Appearing at Durham Crown Court, the 54-year-old, of Stanley, denied eight offences including gross indecency and sexually assaulting a boy under 16.
She was bailed to return for a trial, due to begin on 23 June.
Durham Federation of Schools includes Durham Community Business College, in Ushaw Moor, and Fyndoune Community College, in Sacriston.
In 2012, Ms Lakey was praised for her "inspirational leadership" when she oversaw major GCSE result improvements.