The former landlord of a popular Swindon pub stands accused of sexually assaulting a teenager.

Peter Richardson - known to many as Marc - was the landlord of the Rat Trap pub in Highworth Road when he allegedly sexually assaulted a 15-year-old between September and October of 2022.

The 62-year-old now lives in Oaklands Camblesforth in York, after retiring from the pub in September 2023. 

On April 29, Swindon Magistrates' Court heard how Richardson made the teen feel uncomfortable from the moment they met, and "would regularly put his hands on her hips" or "comment on how he enjoyed her breasts".

The unwanted sexual attention is alleged to have reached its height on October 20, 2022, when the victim stood outside the pub.

Swindon Advertiser: Peter (Marc) Richardson spent 22 years as landlord of the Rat Trap pub in Stratton

"The victim says he stuffed some rubbish up her top and then grabbed her breasts," said prosecutor Keith Ballinger.

"She said she shouted out and then he laughed and went back inside.

“The victim was particularly vulnerable due to her age.”

Appearing virtually before the court, Richardson gave no indication of his plea.

Richardson retired from The Rat Trap pub in September 2023 and has now relocated to York.

The 62-year-old has been released on conditional bail and his case will next be heard in Swindon Crown Court on May 31.