A MAN has been charged with 15 child sex offences spanning a period of more than four years.

Michael Kellard, 64, appeared before Weymouth Magistrates Court on Wednesday, March 1 where he was formally charged.

The offences, ranging from December 7, 2000 to January 1, 2005, include three counts of raping a boy, four counts of indecent assault, two counts of sexual assault by touching, two counts of causing a boy to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity, two counts of causing a boy to engage in penetrative sexual activity, one charge of penetrative sexual assault, and one charge of assault with intent to commit buggery.

The alleged offences involve a number of complainants in different locations: including Dorset, London, and Devon.

All of the complainants were aged under 16 at the time of the alleged offences.

Kellard, whose address was given as Catalina Close in Dunkeswell, Devon, indicated not guilty pleas to all charges.

The case has been adjourned for formal pleas and further case management hearing at Bournemouth Crown Court on March 30.