A former BBC radio star is facing more than 30 criminal charges relating to alleged sexual offences against both children and adults over an 18-year period. Some of the accusations predate his employment with the broadcaster. Brian Shuttlewood, 79, hosted programmes on BBC Radio Leicester between 1978 and 1995, and the alleged crimes are said to have occurred in Leicester between 1972 and 1990. He stands accused of multiple counts of indecent assault, rape, gross indecency, and offences involving cruelty towards children. The charges pertain to four individuals, all of whom are entitled to lifelong anonymity as alleged victims under legal protections. Shuttlewood, with an address at Margaret Villas on Beards Road, in Newhall, has entered not guilty pleas to all the allegations against him. His trial at Leicester Crown Court was scheduled to commence on Friday, January 6, but has now been rescheduled due to concerns around his health.
Judge Herbert, who is presiding over the case, adjourned the January date after the medical issues were raised.
A further hearing has now been scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, at which point the court will receive an update on Shuttlewood's condition.
The former broadcaster is on conditional bail whilst awaiting the next stage of proceedings, and the adjournment means the case remains unresolved as the court awaits clarity on whether he is fit to stand trial.
Among the accusations he faces is the possession of extreme pornographic images, which he has denied. He has maintained his innocence throughout and denied all accusations put before the court.
The offences are alleged to have begun in 1972 - a full six years before Shuttlewood began his career with the broadcasting corporation in 1978.
During his tenure with the BBC, he worked across their East Midlands output, becoming a familiar voice on Radio Leicester and also Radio Nottingham, Derby and Lincoln.
He was known to listeners as "The Big Bopper" with his shows focusing on 1950s and 60s rock ‘n’ roll.
He presented shows such as his flagship programme, The Rocker Returns, and the eponymous The Brian Shuttlewood Music Programme.
