Makhan Singh Mauji, from Northampton, was charged with 14 counts of sexual assault and appeared for trial at Huntingdon Crown Court on Monday (11 November).

The charges relate to offences that occurred between July 1983 and August 1987, taking place at a number of places including at a Gurdwara in Hitchin.

Singh Mauji was a travelling Granthi, a ceremonial religious individual, whose role was to read the Guru Granth Sahib, which is the holy book in Sikhism in Gurdwaras.

Gurdwaras are the meeting places for people of the Sikh faith to assemble and worship. Mr Mauji also has had links to a number of other Gurdwaras including in Northampton, Bedford and Milton Keynes.

Back in August of last year Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins, of Hertfordshire Constabulary's Major Crime Unit said: "I am grateful for the level of bravery these women have shown when reporting these incidents"

"If you want to report anything relating to this case, please do so via the Major Incident Portal".

"Anyone wishing to report a sexual assault will always be treated sensitively and with respect by us. We recognise how difficult it must be but please be assured we have specially trained officers who can help you every step of the way"