Barrie Drewitt-Barlow, aged 57, and his partner Scott Drewitt-Barlow, aged 32, who are known as the first gay surrogate parents in Britain, have been accused of rape and grooming young men for sexual exploitation. The couple, residents of Danbury, Essex, appeared in court at Chelmsford Crown Court where they faced multiple charges, including rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking for sexual exploitation. Prosecutors have stated that they are celebrities with a lavish lifestyle, owning businesses locally and internationally. The trial is scheduled to begin on January 18, 2027, with an expected duration of eight to 10 weeks. Both men were remanded in custody until the next hearing on September 7. Barrie Drewitt-Barlow faces additional charges, including sexual activity with a child, paying for sexual services of a child, rape, sexual assault, and causing sexual activity without consent. Scott Drewitt-Barlow also faces additional charges of rape and causing or inciting sexual activity. Barrie Drewitt-Barlow became the first gay surrogate parent in Britain in 1999.