2004

Convicted paedophile gets job back

A CONVICTED paedophile has been given his job back by bosses at the Ministry of Defence — to the fury of workmates.

Perverted Gary Templar, 32, was convicted of indecently assaulting an eight-year-old girl after teaching her “how to kiss properly” as he tucked her into bed.

Templar had been suspended from his job with the Ministry of Defence Guard Service before his trial. He was later spared jail and ordered to do community rehabilitation.

But now bosses at the Defence Procurement Agency at Abbey Wood in Bristol have caused uproar by letting him return to work.

Seven of Templar’s workmates have protested to managers and MPs. The Abbey Wood site includes a staff nursery for 100 kids and guards’ duties involve locking and unlocking the door.

One worker, Bob, 40, said: “We find it incredible the MoD have brought this man back.

“Feelings are running high. Ninety per cent of staff are working with him but not talking to him.

“We can be called down to the nursery for any kind of emergency.”

Dad-of-one Templar, of Keynsham, Somerset, committed the offence while he was looking after the youngster — not related to him — 12 years ago.

He had often put her to bed and read her stories, and on one occasion offered to show her how to perform a “proper kiss”.

A spokesman for the agency said: “This man has been dealt with by the courts and his reassimilation to work was considered in accordance with employment law. His normal duties will not bring him near the nursery or into contact with children.”