A FORMER Catholic priest has been sent to prison for six years for sex abuse at a children’s homes more than 30 years ago.

David Murphy molested seven children in his care while training for the ministry, Maidstone Crown Court was told. Another priest, Michael McConville, escaped prison for offences he committed with a boy and girl at one of the homes.

A judge told 56-year-old Murphy that he had to be punished to reflect the public condemnation of offences against vulnerable young children.

McConville, he said, was in a difference category after being cleared of more serious matters. He was ordered to complete 100 hours of community work.

Both were ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register, Murphy for life and McConville for five years.

McConville, 52, was in February convicted of molesting a boy and girl at the home, where he was in charge. Murphy had previously admitted eight indecent assault charges.

The court heard that the offences were committed in the early 1970s when the pair were trainee priests. Four alleged victims - three women and a man - now all in their 40s - gave evidence against McConville.

John Hillen, prosecuting, said the abuse was kept secret for many years. Most of it took place at St Mary’s children’s home in Gravesend.

Murphy also behaved indecently at Lisieux House in Orpington where he was in charge. Both were run by the Catholic Children’s Society.