A man from Danby has been jailed for 15 years and four months for subjecting a girl to a sustained series of sexually abuse.

Brian Michael Carr, 79, was sentenced at York Crown Court today (Friday).

He had previously been found guilty of 17 offences against the victim whose identity is legally protected.

The offences include: • Three counts of rape of a child under 13 years • Three counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity • Three counts of sexual activity with a child • Eight counts of sexual assault by touching Detective Constable Angela Martindale, from the Safeguarding Investigation Team in Scarborough, led the inquiry which began in June 2021 when the victim reported her ordeal.

DC Martindale said: “This has been a very distressing case for the victim who has been dealing with the consequences of Carr’s sickening abuse for years.

“Investigations like these rarely mean that only the victim has suffered. There is often a wider impact on the victim’s family.

“Carr’s conviction and imprisonment are a testimony to the bravery and courage shown by the victim who, by reporting this matter to the police, was trying to protect other children in addition to dealing with her own trauma.

“Sadly, no conviction or sentence for offences of this terrible nature can repair the damage that has already done.

“I just hope the victim can draw strength from the outcome a court and start to rebuild her life.”

 DC Martindale added: “This case proves once again that it is never too late to report non-recent child abuse. We are here to help you.

“I also encourage anyone with an unhealthy interest in children to seek professional help before going on to ruin lives.

“Support services are available such as the Lucy Faithfull Foundation’s ‘Stop it now!’ website.”

For more information about seeking further support, advice and ways of reporting child abuse go to Home - Bridge House (bridgehousesarc.org)