No evidence of abuse at nursery where sex offender was employed

Investigators have confirmed that no criminal activity occurred at a nursery after a previous employee pleaded guilty to child sexual offences. Zara Lancashire, aged 20, from Datchworth Turn, Hemel Hempstead, admitted at St Albans Crown Court to creating and sharing indecent images of children and publishing obscene materials online.

Hertfordshire Police reported that they contacted over 100 parents of children attending Flower Pots Day Nursery in Kings Langley during their inquiry. The authorities stated that all offences committed by Lancashire were online and did not involve children at the nursery.

Lancashire faces sentencing on 5 March. She admitted 11 offences in total, including four counts of distributing indecent child images, three counts of making indecent images, and four counts of publishing obscene articles. Some of the images she distributed were classified as category A, the most severe level.

Detective Chief Inspector James Howarth said, Zara Lancashire has admitted to serious crimes while in a position of trust. We welcome that she will be held accountable. I want to reassure parents and the public that after a detailed investigation, which included speaking to more than 100 guardians, no evidence of abuse was found at Flower Pots Day Nursery. All offences occurred online. We are grateful to parents and guardians for their cooperation during this difficult time.

Flower Pots Day Nursery had previously suspended the staff member in September after concerns were raised. The nursery continues to cooperate with authorities.

Author: Ava Mitchell