At a time when the Catholic Church cannot afford bad press
, a London court has ruled that a Preston Catholic College will have to face a 5 million action from an ex-pupil, claiming sexual abuse.
Patrick Raggett, aged 52 has won the right to pursue his claim of sexual abuse against the governors of the Jesuit-run school.
During a four year period, Mr Raggett allegedly suffered regular abuse. Mr Raggett remarked that he was "very pleased" with the decision and that he would "remain resolute and confident that, in the end, justice will be achieved".
But Mr Raggett did acknowledge that the decision was "only another stage on what is a long road".
The allegations against thae Preston school are aimed specifically at the late Father Michael Spencer who supposedly assaulted him several times a week.
Lord Justice Thomas remarked that there was strong evidence against Father Spencer and so the action should be allowed. Mrs Justice Swift further rejected the claim by the governors that too much time had elapsed for a case to be brought.
The claim for 5 million includes both past and future loss of earnings as a City solicitor. Mr Raggett claimed that he has suffered years of poor performance at work, substance abuse in the form of binge-drinking and a mental breakdown.
The British Jesuits released a statement where they said that they had "fully noted" the judgment and further more they "recognize the claimant's right to proceed with his claim for damages and deeply regret any abuse he suffered during his time at Preston Catholic College".