Pensioner convicted of persistent sexual abuse

David Bell, 72, was today found guilty of five charges of indecency with the girl between July 1991 and August 1995, when his victim was aged between 10 and 14 years.

Durham Crown Court heard that it only came to light when the woman, now aged 22, complained to police last November.

Anne Richardson, prosecuting, said in backing up her allegations the woman was able to tell police that Bell had a large mark on his thigh.

He was arrested and in two interviews in January made complete denials, claiming it was "pure fantasy" and the stories were being "made up".

The former Royal Navy serviceman and retired miner denied two charges of indecent assault, three of indecency with a child under 14, plus one count of attempted rape.

He was cleared of the attempted rape charge, but convicted of the remaining counts by unanimous jury verdicts on the third day of his trial, today.

Following the verdicts, his barrister, Richard Bennett, requested the preparation of medical and probation service reports on Bell, before he is sentenced.

"Clearly the defendant will be facing a custodial sentence. He's a man of 72 and not in the best of health. These reports may be of assistance before consideration is given as to the sentence."

Mr Bennett said Bell, of Westmoreland Rise, Peterlee, suffers diabetes and is arthritic.

He also added that he and his family have received threats following publicity about the case.

Agreeing to Mr Bennett's request, Judge Richard Lowden told Bell: "A custodial sentence is inevitable, and therefore I'll order that these medical and other assessments will have to be prepared while you are in custody.

"The cases you have been convicted of are very serious, given they involve a child, but I'm perfectly prepared to wait for a few weeks before deciding on the length of the sentence."

He remanded Bell in custody pending sentence, at Newcastle Crown Court, in the week of October 11.