A pervert who sexually assaulted a young boy left in his care more than 20 years ago has been jailed.

Scott Goldfinch, 37, of Cornwall Road, Herne Bay, was a teenager when he carried out the attack more than 20 years ago.

He will serve serve six and a half years in prison after a jury found him guilty in a four day trial at Canterbury Crown Court.

Helen Press, investigating police officer, praised the victim's bravery and urged others to come forward.

She said: "The victim of this case was very brave to come forward after such a long time and no doubt will carry the effects of this assault for the rest of his life.

"It is only now, as an adult, that he has felt able to report this crime and provide evidence.

"As a result of the victim’s bravery Goldfinch will now serve time in prison and we hope this shows anyone suffering from an unreported sexual offence that justice can be done and that it’s never too later to come forward."

"We would also like to reassure victims that Kent Police will always be sensitive when investigating incidents like this and will do everything possible to protect children."

Goldfinch carried out the attack in 1996.