A NEW trial date has been set for a Thames Valley Police officer accused of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child.

Slough officer Cerrig Shardlow has been accused of attempting to communicate with a child he allegedly believed was 13-years-old between May 30, 2022 and June 8, 2022.

The conversations allegedly surrounded asking the person, which turned out to be an undercover officer, about their ‘sexual experiences and physical appearances’.

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Shardlow, 44, who has been suspended from duty in his role as a sergeant, was originally due to stand trial on April 29 next year at Reading Crown Court after denying the offences at Reading Magistrates Court.

However, the trial has now been fixed as a fixed floater for August 29, 2024.

As Shardlow is a Thames Valley Police officer, an application was made to Judge Sarah Campbell for his case to be transferred away from the Thames Valley area.

It is unknown if the new trial date is reflective of the hearing remaining in Berkshire or whether the transfer application is still be considered.

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Shardlow, of Lime Close in Wokingham, is next due in court on July 26 which is subject to change depending on the application for transfer.