A former boarding school headteacher, accused of indecently assaulting boys in his care, is facing a second trial after jurors failed to reach a verdict.

The jury at Worcester Crown Court could not agree whether 42-year-old Colin Wheeler was guilty or innocent of 22 counts of indecent assault.

The former head of Bredon School head, which specialises in teaching children with learning difficulties, looked incredulous as he left the court.

Moments earlier, after almost six hours' deliberation, the jury forewoman announced to His Honour Judge Marten Coates that the six women and six men were unable to reach a verdict on any of the outstanding charges.

They did formally return verdicts of not guilty to two counts of indecent assault following directions earlier in the trial from the judge.

Following the jurors' announcement, Mr David Iles, prosecuting, said the Crown would be seeking a retrial. "The prosecution does take the view that this case needs to be resolved, not least for Mr Wheeler himself," he said.

The retrial may now take place in January, possibly at Hereford Crown Court.

Wheeler, of Pinvin, Worcestershire, was remanded on unconditional bail. Afterwards he said: "The case is ongoing and I have been advised not to make any comment."

Eleven pupils from Bredon School claimed Wheeler sexually assaulted them during his 19 years as a teacher at the school.

This story was first published in the Gloucestershire Echo.