A SEX beast who carried out a number of sickening attacks on two young boys has been jailed for 24 years.

Mark Weldrake systematically abused one of his victims and carried out a serious sexual offence on the other victim on one occasion.

The 56-year-old admitted carrying out an unknown number of rapes when one of his victim's came forward to report the abuse he suffered at the hands of Weldrake.

Teesside Crown Court heard how his abuse had a devastating effect on his victims, who are now both adults.

In victim personal statements, the two men outlined the toll the defendant's abuse had taken on their mental health.

The first victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said he has 'felt angry' throughout his life and had attempted to take his own life three times and what Weldrake did to him impacted his mental health.

And the second victim added: "The abuse I suffered had a big affect on me, I was bullied a lot; I was quiet and couldn't make friends easily.

"I was always in my shell and I still am now."

Annie Richardson, prosecuting, said the offences took place while the defendant was living in the Hartlepool area in the 90s.

The court heard how Weldrake took steps to prevent the victim's from speaking out, including buying gifts and exhibiting intimidating behaviour.

Weldrake, of Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, pleaded guilty to five counts of rape, rape of a child under 13, indecent assault on a male person and buggery.

Victoria Lamballe, in mitigation, said her client was well aware that he was facing a lengthy custodial sentence and it was rare for people charged with these type of offences to plead guilty.

Judge Howard Crowson sentenced Weldrake to 24 years in custody for the 'persistent' abuse over a number of years.

Dealing with the first victim, he said: "You swore him to secrecy and bought him gifts. His youth, no doubt, inexperience, the ignorance of what took place and your demands – he maintained his silence for years."

Addressing the charges against the second victim, the judge added Weldrake carried out a protracted campaign of abuse against the young boy, leaving him significantly damaged by the abuse.

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also follow our dedicated Teesside Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.

For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054