A sex offender who abused a child in Maidstone more than 10 years ago has been jailed.

Paul Rigby from Sidcup denied abusing the young victim in the county town, but was later found guilty after a trial.

Allegations were initially made to Kent Police in 2017, but the incident took place between 2008 and 2009.

Rigby, of Frinton Road, Sidcup was interviewed by police and an investigation led to him being charged with two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

The 45-year-old pleaded not guilty at Woolwich Crown Court but on Friday , he was sentenced to two years and six months' imprisonment.

He was also made subject of a sexual harm prevention order and added to the sex offenders register, indefinitely.

DC Wendy Thatcher, of the West Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team said: "The abhorrent actions of people like Rigby cause immeasurable harm to their victims, who also have to live with these memories for the rest of their lives.

"Thankfully in this case justice has now been served and I would like to thank and commend the victim for their courage in coming forward. I would also advise anyone who has been a victim of any sexual offence, that it is never too late to report this to police.

"We will always treat any information with the utmost confidence and sensitivity and have a team of specialist officers who work relentlessly to ensure that offenders like Rigby are prosecuted."

An NSPCC spokesperson said: “Rigby’s victim must be commended for the incredible bravery shown in coming forward to report their ordeal and we hope this outcome brings them some measure of closure.

“Child sexual abuse has a devastating impact on lives and no matter how long ago the offences took place it’s important that victims have the confidence to come forward and seek support, knowing they will be listened to.”

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