A TEACHER from Gloucestershire has admitted a string of sex charges against a teenage student.

Simon Parsons, 52, pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust while he was a teacher at the Castle School in Thornbury, South Gloucestershire.

Bristol Crown Court heard that the offences occurred over a two-year period.

He denied a similar sixth charge, which was accepted by the Crown.

Bearded Parsons, who was wearing black trousers and a black T-shirt, spoke only to enter his pleas during the short hearing.

David Scutt, defending, said Parsons - a teacher for 30 years - admitted the charges but on basis that the sexual activity took place when the victim was 17.

"The basis of plea will refer to the fact that this sexual activity took place from the age of 17 years of age," he said.

"It will be refuted that there was any grooming."

Mr Scutt said there was "background" to this case and the sentencing judge would be helped by a pre-sentence report.

Judge Michael Roach released Parsons, of Uley Road, Dursley, on conditional bail until he is sentenced in January.