The chief-executive of LGBT Youth, one of Scotland’s most prominent organisations for young lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people was in court this week on child pornography charges. 

On 11 September Jamie Rennie, 37, was charged on 15 counts of sexual indecency at Glasgow High Court, including ‘manufacturing indecent images of children,’  ‘lewd, indecent and libidinous practices’ and ‘conspiring with other co-accused and with others in the commission of sexual offences against children.’

Rennie was arrested at the end of last year but formal allegations have only been released this week, pending his appearance in court. 

LGBT Youth Scotland suspended Rennie from his post after his arrest last year, offering the following statement: “LGBT Youth Scotland has been made aware by Lothian and Borders Police that Jamie Rennie has been arrested in connection with the investigation of a serious offence.

“We have acted immediately to suspend Jamie Rennie from his post as Chief Executive pending the outcome of the police investigations.”

Rennie studied physics at Heriot-Watt University, where he was President of the students’ association, after which he trained as a teacher. 

He has held a number of high-profile posts in youth and gay rights groups and could face jail if convicted. 

LGBT Youth Scotland was established in November 1989 providing a range of services and opportunities for young LGBT people. 

In the past, LGBT Youth has worked closely with Edinburgh University society BLOGS, with both organisations working for the inclusion of, and raising awareness for LGBT students and young people across Scotland.