A paedophile who sexually abused a vulnerable child over a four-year period has been locked up.

Raymond Gray, 83, subjected his young victim to appalling abuse between 2011 and 2015.

He also gave the child pornographic magazines and warned them not to tell anyone about his actions.

Gray, from Glendale, Swanley, was arrested in August last year after concerns were raised.

During interview, Gray refused to comment to a number of questions but admitted to officers he was ashamed of himself, because he "shouldn't have done it".

Appearing at Maidstone Crown Court, Gray pleaded guilty to seven counts of sexual activity with a child.

He has now been sentenced to six years and seven months in prison. He will also be placed on the sex offenders' register indefinitely.

Detective Constable Deniz Aslan, of Kent Police’s Public Protection Unit said: "Gray was responsible for the systematic and calculated abuse of a vulnerable child.

"Thanks to the bravery of the victim reporting this matter we have been able to take swift action and ultimately secure a conviction against him.

"I'm pleased the court has recognised the severity of his actions and the danger he poses to children.

"The sentence imposed sends a clear message to anyone else who abuses children for their own sexual gratification."

An NSPCC spokesperson said: “By admitting his crimes Gray at least spared his victim of having to relive their ordeal in a court room filled with strangers.

“Justice has prevailed although that is likely to be of little comfort to Gray’s victim.

“Gray’s actions will have a dramatic impact on his victim. But - with the right help - they can recover and go to on to lead a happy and fulfilling life.

“Any child in need of advice and support can contact Childline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0800 1111 or by visiting www.childline.org.uk.”