A FORMER scout leader told of his three-year hell last night after being cleared by a jury of sexually assaulting two young boys.

Christopher Blakeborough was suspended from his position - as well as that of a special constable - when the allegations were made.

He had then been told that the matter would be taken no further - only to be later charged and put on trial at Teesside Crown Court.

The 27-year-old, from Darlington, was found not guilty yesterday - less than three hours after the jury retired to reach its verdicts.

Mr Blakeborough said afterwards that he now wants to concentrate on rebuilding his reputation, and thanked his legal team and well-wishers.

He described the time since his "surreal" arrest in November 2011 as "a terrible ordeal" and said it left him feeling "sickened".

It was alleged he spanked one boy on a camping trip, and touched another in a church hall cupboard when taking him for a new jumper.

The prosecution claimed he placed a tape measure against the boy’s bare skin, and also told him to pull his trousers and pants down.

Mr Blakeborough told the jury that neither event happened, and how he was shocked when he heard of the claims from the police.

He had been questioned on an earlier occasion, but had been told there would be no further action, and said: "I thought that was that sorted out."

The case was later resurrected and Mr Blakeborough, who had been with the Scouting Association from the age of six, said: "It was a bit surreal."

He added: "You can imagine, the police turning up at the house . . . It's hard to describe, really. When I was actually told why, I was sickened, I suppose."

He admitted giving youngsters "wedgies" on a camping trip, but said it was part of a "rough and tumble" game during a water gun fight.

Mr Blakeborough denied it was some sort of initiation ceremony, and said other children did them to one another, too - but not on his orders.

Mr Blakeborough's parents were at his side throughout his trial, and had supported him on all of his earlier court appearances.

He said afterwards: "We are delighted that today I can leave this court an innocent man, and seek to rebuild my reputation among my community.

"I would like to express my gratitude to all those people who continued to believe in my innocence, and my legal team. Myself and my parents could not have faced this time without their support.

"Over the last three years, my family and I have faced this terrible ordeal."