POLICE are hunting a fugitive sex offender who has been jailed for a total of 16 years in his absence after he failed to turn up to court.

Nelson Burton, 75, who lives close to the village of Seamer, near Stokesley, North Yorkshire, was sentenced for a range of sexual offences against a minor and breach of bail.

He was convicted for attempted rape, 12 counts of indecent assault on a female and four counts of gross indecency against a child.

They occurred between 1990 and 1998, with the victim reporting the offence in 2013.

Burton, of Hillfield Close, Seamer, was due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on Thursday April 13, but failed to turn up.

He received an additional 12 month sentence for failing to appear in court. Burton was sentenced in his absence and a warrant was issued by the court.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: “Anyone who has any information on Burton’s location should contact the police on 101.

“Anyone who sees him is advised not to approach him but to call 999 immediately.”

Meanwhile, police have commended victims of sexual offences for having the courage to seek help.

Detective Constable Mark O’Brien, said: “We want to encourage anyone who has been a victim of rape or sexual assault to report it - no matter when it happened or how many times.

“I hope the outcome of this case gives other victims the confidence to come forward to police and know that they will be believed.

“No one should suffer in silence. We take every reported allegation of sexual abuse against a child or young person extremely seriously, irrespective of how long ago an offence occurred.

He added: “Also ask anyone who may have concerns about someone else and believes they may have been a victim of any sexual abuse then please say something.

“We all have a duty to help safeguarding others – and we all need to make sure we make safeguarding our business.

“Victims are at the heart of all we do at Northumbria Police and we have specialist safeguarding officers here to offer support. Each case is treated in a highly confidential and sensitive way.”

An NSPCC spokesperson said: “It is important that survivors of child sexual abuse know they will be listened to when they speak out, no matter how much time has passed.

“Burton’s victim has shown incredible bravery in coming forward and helping to ensure justice is done.

“The NSPCC has a dedicated helpline for adults with concerns about a child, call 0808 800 5000 24/7 or visit www.nspcc.org.uk.”