A MAN has been found not guilty of sexually abusing a young child several years ago.

John Allen denied touching the infant inappropriately numerous times and during his trial argued the complainant fabricated the allegations.

Teesside Crown Court previously heard the complainant realised they had been a victim of child abuse during a self help class several years after the alleged attacks.

But jurors unanimously found the 36-year-old not guilty of three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child.

There were sighs of relief from the public gallery as the verdict was read out.

The court previously heard the complainant, who was a young child at the time of the alleged attacks, was left “disgusted” and “wanted to die to stop the pain”.

But Paul Abrahams, defending, said Allen maintained his innocence throughout the court process and said he never touched or was sexually attracted to children.

Allen, of Morton Street, Hartlepool, said he did not know why the complainant fabricated the allegations and exclaimed in relief as he left the court room.