A RAPIST has been jailed for 19 years after abusing children for more than a decade.

The pensioner is now behind bars after being found guilty of a string of offences relating to the sexual abuse of two children.

Stephen Lamb abused the pair throughout their childhoods and until they became young adults.

In 2015, the brave victims reported their harrowing experiences to the police in the hope of finally bringing the Darlington man to justice.

The 61-year-old denied all allegations but after a jury heard the evidence against him at a nine-day trial, he was found guilty of six counts of rape, five indecent assaults and one count of gross indecency with a child.

He was handed a 19 year sentence at Teesside Crown Court on Friday, October 26 and was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.

Lamb – of Bourne Avenue, Darlington – was charged with the offences in July 2017 after a lengthy investigation was launched by Durham Constabulary officers in the wake of the victims’ disclosures of abuse.

The victims were praised for their bravery in coming forward as police reassured the public that they would do all they could to tackle allegations of historic sexual offences.

Detective Constable Charlotte Ryans, from Durham Constabulary, said: “Lamb targeted his victims and subjected them to appalling abuse for his own sexual gratification.

“This abuse began when his victims were young children, and continued through until they were young adults.

“They have shown immense courage by coming forward and having the strength to speak up about their ordeal to ensure justice can be served.”

DC Ryans added: “No sentence can take away the pain and distress they have suffered because of Lamb, and the ongoing effects this will continue to have on their lives.

“However, I hope this result can help them move forward knowing their abuser is now behind bars.

“I also hope it will reassure other survivors of non-recent sexual abuse that no matter who the perpetrator is, they can come forward and report their concerns confident in the knowledge that we will listen to them and we will investigate.”

Anyone who believes they have been a victim of sexual abuse is urged to contact their local police force on non-emergency number 101 or 999, if it is an emergency.

  • For support in reporting or coping with the aftermath of abuse, those in the County Durham and Darlington area can contact The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0191-372-9202. In Teesside, contact ARCH North East on 01642-822331.