A pensioner found guilty of child sexual offences has been jailed for five years.

The investigation into Anthony Robert Scott, 77, was launched in autumn 2021 when an adult reported that he had abused them on many occasions.

The abuse started decades ago when the victim was a young child and continued until they were in their early teens.

Scott denied the allegations when questioned by officers, however police were determined to identify and interview as many potential witnesses as possible to gain evidence supporting the victim’s claims.

He was charged in December 2022 and appeared at Teesside Magistrates’ Court, then at Teesside Crown Court the following month, where he pleaded not guilty.

After a five-day trial in February, Scott, of Silverwood Court, Thornaby, was found guilty of indecency with a child and two counts of indecent assault.

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Officer in the case Detective Constable Jodi Prosser said: “Scott’s actions had a lasting effect on the victim who has suffered lasting trauma.

"Their bravery in reporting what happened when they were just a young child though, and their steadfast support for our investigation, has helped bring him to justice.

“Scott continually denied what he had done but I’m glad the jury has deemed him guilty. I hope today’s sentence will bring some reassurance to the victim; we all wish them well in their ongoing recovery.”

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CAVA Chief Inspector Matt Murphy King added: “This was a very complex and lengthy enquiry, not least due to the amount of time which had passed since the abuse took place.

"Nevertheless DC Prosser worked tirelessly to identify witnesses, often working with other forces across the UK to achieve the evidence we needed to secure charges.

“Her determination to bring Scott to justice has paid off and I hope this reassures this brave survivor - and indeed anyone who may have experienced similar abuse – it is always worth taking that brave first step and reporting to police, even if the crimes occurred many years ago.”