A man from Malvern has been sentenced to 18 years in prison for sex offences against a child.

Robert Hampton, aged 77, of Somers Court in Upper Howsell Road, Malvern was found guilty of seven counts of offences including:

One count of rape of a boy under 13

Two counts of offender of any age causing/inciting a boy under 13 to engage in sexual activity-penetration.

One count of attempted rape of a child under 13.

Three counts of assaulting a boy under 13 years of age by penetration with a part of your body/ a thing.

He was sentenced yesterday at Worcester Crown Court to 18 years in prison and one year on licence for his crimes committed between January 2007 and December 2018.

Detective Constable Hannah Croft, said: ā€œI would like to commend the bravery of the victim and their family in this case. Without their courage, perseverance and tenacity, Hampton would not have been brought to justice.

ā€œHampton is a dangerous individual and Iā€™m glad his sentence reflects the heinous crimes he committed. I hope if anything positive is to come out of today is that it gives other victims the confidence to come forward and speak with the policeā€.

Anyone who has experienced abuse in childhood or is concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC helpline confidentially on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111.