The husband of a chemistry teacher accused of sexually abusing two former pupils testified in court that his wife has a congenital condition which limits their sexual activity. Sally-Anne Bowen, 65, is on trial at Harrow Crown Court, denying seven counts of indecent assault.
Prosecutors allege that Bowen, who taught at Christ's College, Finchley, in north London during the late 1980s, had sexual relationships with two teenage boys. She is accused of dressing suggestively to entice the students, and of engaging in sexual acts with one boy 20 to 30 times over a five-month period.
Bowen denies all charges and has stated that her skirts were typically only a few inches above her knee. She told the court that she was in her mid-20s at the time and would not have dressed in a provocative manner.
Her husband, Darren Lee Scotchbrook, told the court that he and Bowen have been married for 36 years. He described their intimate life as different from what he expected, stating that Bowen has a condition that prevents prolonged penetrative sex. Scotchbrook testified that he has had sex with Bowen throughout their marriage but has to be careful to avoid causing her pain.
He recounted their first sexual encounter, describing it as "completely different" and "a careful process." He added that his wife would ask him to be quick and that he identified himself as "never a great lover" and "always been quick." He also noted that sex was not as enjoyable for Bowen, who was often reluctant, and that it also left him sore.
Bowen was previously cleared of one charge of indecent assault. The trial is ongoing.