A children's summer camp run by a former Harpenden teacher has been suspended after one of the directors running it was arrested on suspicion of possessing indecent images of a child.

Ben Lewis, of Lullington Garth, Borehamwood, has been charged with three counts of possessing indecent images of a child.

Mr Lewis, 25, who taught at St Dominic's School for two years, was one of the founders of the American style summer camps at St Margaret's School, Bushey, which opened in 2010.

The camp was suspended with immediate effect last week, following Mr Lewis's arrest.

Mr Lewis appeared at St Albans Crown Court on today, where he was remanded in custody.

An Ofsted spokesman said: "We can confirm we have suspended the registrations of these early years settings while investigations are carried out. It would be inappropriate to comment further while investigations are ongoing."

Co-founder of LL Camps Tal Landsman said: "I am devastated by what has happened. I am unable to give any further comments as I do not want to prejudice a fair trial.

"I would like to thank all the parents for their and supportive words during this time. I ask for everyone to please respect me and my family."

Mr Landsman, 25, added that parents who had children due to attend LL Camps from Friday, August 7 will be able to obtain a refund by filling out a form on their website, which has been reinstated.

Mr Landsman confirmed that the camp will be closed for the remainder of the summer and apologised for any inconvenienced it caused for parents.

Parents described hearing the news as a "disgrace" but praised the "excellent" service they had offered which their children loved.

Mr Lewis and Mr Landsman were in the process of setting up an LL Primary School in Borehamwood, with the aim of bringing a fresh perspective to education.

With regards to the future of the camp he said: "We will no longer be known as LL Camps.

"However we are working to re brand and bring something new, innovative and exciting to our loyal parents and look forward to welcoming new families too."

Hertfordshire Constabulary, Hertfordshire County Council and Ofsted are working together and say the safety and welfare of children is the top priority.

Parents with specific concerns about their child should contact Hertfordshire County Council on 0300 123 4043 and ask to make a referral to children’s services.

Anyone with information which could assist the police in their investigation should call 101.