Chiswick Photographer Faces Child Abuse Charges

David Trainer accused of nine counts of indecent assault

A photographer who once had his work exhibited alongside William Henry Fox Talbot has appeared in court accused of 16 sex charges dating back to 1980.

Former children's TV worker David Trainer, 62, currently lives above a shop on Chiswick High Road. He worked as a puppeteer on 1986 musical 'Little Shop of Horrors' is accused of abusing five children during the 1980s and 1990s.

David Trainer

Trainer's documentary portrayal of London life featured in a Tate Britain exhibition in 2007 when his work showed alongside names such as Fox Talbot, Lewis Carroll, Bill Brandt and David Bailey.

Rebecca Hadgett, defending, said Trainer was yet to indicate his plea to the 16 charges.

Judge Timothy Stone said: 'These are historical cases. I take the view that in relation to all these matters they must be dealt with a crown court.'

Trainer faces nine charges of indecent assault - six against a girl and three on a boy - six of inciting children to commit an act of gross indecency - and one of gross indecency.

One of the indecent assaults on a girl was said to have taken place at an elephant festival between 1st of January 1985 and the 31st Day of December 1986.

The charges date from between May 1980 and August 1991.

Trainer was bailed ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing at Inner London Crown Court on March 9.

February 16, 2017