The trial of the former head of the Ellan Vannin Gymnastics Club continues at Douglas Courthouse (pictured) this morning.

62 year old Harold (Hal) Volante is accused of eight counts of indecent assault on young girls who were in the club.

Yesterday, he took the witness stand and denied each of the allegations in turn.

But under prosecution cross-examination, he admitted some of his behaviour would have caused him concern if he’d heard of similar incidents between a teacher and his granddaughter.

Jason Roberts reports:

(Text of attached audio)

Mr Volante admitted he twanged the bra straps of one girl, accidentally undoing it in the process. He said on reflection this was inappropriate but defended hugging and kissing the girls, saying he was very close to them.

He denied an accusation he was a manipulative menace to the children who couldn’t keep his hands to himself.

Mr Volante said he considered himself to be a decent man, and had undergone child protection training.

The trial continues.