A SEX offender from Royston has been brought to justice for his historic crimes.
George Grace, 78, was sentenced at Leeds Crown Court on November 10 after being found guilty of offences of rape and two offences of indecent assault.
He was jailed for 14 years for the crimes, which took place between 1985 and 1992 in the Huddersfield area.
The victim, from Huddersfield, who did not wish to waive the anonymity afforded to sexual abuse victims, was just a young child when the assault occurred.
Following the sentencing, she said: “My message to other women and men who have gone through this is to contact the police and get justice.
“You are stronger than you think and I can promise the support is really there for you.
“Pre-trial and post-trial, there is help in place and it is worth its weight in gold.”
The investigation was led by Kirklees’ child safeguarding officers, which resulted in Grace being charged last July.
DC Megan Boothroyd of the safeguarding team added: “He committed dreadful offences against a then young child over a sustained period and we welcome the sentence imposed by the courts against him.
“She has shown great courage in coming forward and doing everything she possibly could to ensure Grace was put before the courts.
“We continue to urge anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence and has not reported it, for whatever reason, to come forward and contact the police.
“All reports are thoroughly investigated by specialist officers who can also signpost victims to the help and support they may need.”