A man who sexually abused a young girl while he was living in the Teignbridge area in the 1960s was sentenced to 11 years in prison at Exeter Crown Court on Tuesday (14 February).

Michael Redgrave, 72, of Barn Close in Crewkerne, Somerset, was found guilty of seven charges including buggery, attempted rape of a child, and indecency with a child following a trial in January.

The victim was aged between six and eight when she was subjected to the abuse.

Detective Constable Victoria Hayward, who led the investigation, praised her for her bravery when she came forward in February 2018.

DC Hayward said: "Her tenacity, strength, courage and resilience throughout the investigation and the court trial have been extraordinary.

"The abuse she suffered as a young child has had a significant impact on her for the whole of her life, affecting her physical and mental health and relationships.

"It is hoped that the victim can now move forward in her life and that the outcome of the investigation and the conviction of Redgrave will bring some closure for her.

"After receiving the guilty verdict, she said that the negativity that she had borne was beginning to disappear. She was stunned to learn of the prison sentence stating that, at most, she had expected Redgrave to receive a suspended sentence."

Detective Superintendent Nicky Seager, Devon and Cornwall Police's Sexual Offences Lead, said: "I would like to reassure the public that the force takes all reports of sexual abuse seriously and this conviction illustrates how we are determined to bring offenders to justice no matter how long ago a crime may have taken place."

Anyone who may have been affected by anything raised in this article can contact police in their local area by emailing [email protected] or calling 101.

The freephone NSPCC helpline 0808 800 5000 is available for anyone to report or seek advice about non-recent abuse. Calls can be made anonymously.