A FORMER long-serving Hampshire policeman has appeared in court after being charged over claims he sexually assaulted boys at a police station.

Ex-Inspector Gerry Hutchings, 48, who was based in Lyndhurst in the New Forest, was charged with ten counts of sexual assault on nine male juveniles between July 2006 and July 2007. He was also charged with nine counts of misconduct in public office.

Hutchings appeared before magistrates in Brighton and has been bailed until April 4.