A pervert sexually assaulted a young girl who was part of a gardening group he was running.

John Trinder, 74, was the chairman of a local gardening community group at the time of the offence a few years ago, Luton Crown Court heard.

He had sexually assaulted the young girl, who was a member of this group, when she was just nine-years-old.

The victim disclosed the assault years later to a member of her family who then informed the police.

Trinder, of Chandler’s Cross, was sentenced at Luton Crown Court on Thursday, July 22, after being found guilty by a majority verdict of one count of sexual assault by touching.

He was sentenced to 44 months imprisonment and also placed on the sex offenders register for life.

PC Benjamin Robertson, from Bedfordshire Police’s Protecting Vulnerable Persons Unit, said: “I would like to commend the victim’s courage and determination to disclose this abhorrent crime to us.

“It’s hasn’t been an easy process for her to go through and I am glad Trinder has been sent to prison for what he did to her. He sexually abused her at young age for his own sexual gratification and will now have time to reflect on his actions.

“Hopefully this prison sentence will bring some closure and allow this brave young person to move forward in life. 

“We would also like to encourage anyone who has experienced abuse to speak out, no matter how long ago the abuse took place. You will be believed and we will investigate.

“Our force is committed to protect the victims and bring the offenders to justice.”

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