A man who pleaded guilty to multiple child sex offences dating back to the 1980s has been sentenced to more than nine years in prison.

Richard Riley pleaded guilty to the crimes at Maidstone Crown Court, which took place in the Chatham and London area between 1982 and 1985.

Riley, of Kimberley Road in Stockwell, London, was arrested in November last year and later charged.

The 66-year-old admitted four counts of rape of a child under 16 years of age and one count of indecent assault of a child under 16.

Riley was sentenced on Monday to nine years and six months in prison and will be placed on the sex offenders’ register for an indefinite period.

Investigating officer DC Rebecca Taft said: "Riley has acted in an appalling manner over a number of years.

"His actions have caused awful suffering and it is only right that he is to serve a substantial prison sentence.

"I would like to commend the bravery of the victim who showed great courage in coming forward to report the abuse and help us bring this man to justice."

NSPCC spokesperson said: “Riley’s victim has shown incredible courage in speaking out about the awful abuse suffered at the hands of this predator.

“No matter how long ago the abuse took place, without the right help and support sexual abuse will ruin lives."

In Kent the NSPCC runs its ‘Letting the Future’ service, where survivors of child sexual abuse can receive support to help them recover from their ordeal.

Anyone who is concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.