A FLINTSHIRE man has been jailed after being found guilty of sexual offences against two children. 

Michael Bennett, of Maes Gwyn, Flint, appeared at Caernarfon Crown Court for sentencing on Friday (October 11). 

The 62-year-old had previously been found guilty after trial of three counts of sexual assault on a child. 

John Philpotts, prosecuting, said Bennett assaulted two children and read out a victim personal statement on behalf of one of the victims - both of whom are now adults.

One said the abuse caused her to turn to drink at a young age, and that the "mental scars" have affected her relationships.

The other victim read her statement out in court. "I feel the abuse has tainted my childhood," she said. "I have experienced things no child should have to go through. It took away my childhood innocence. 

"I struggle with anxiety and stress which stems back to what happened to me as a child. 

"I don't want what he did to me to define my journey. I feel like a constant battle with myself each day to try and be positive."

Debra White, defending, said Bennett had no previous convictions and he has learning difficulties - which will make custody harder for him than most. He is also a permanent and main carer of his severely disabled son, after the death of his wife. 

Judge Timothy Petts sentenced Bennett to seven years imprisonment.

He will remain on the Sexual Offenders Register for life, and is subject to a restraining order against the two victims. 

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Gemma Smith, said: “Bennett’s behaviour has left psychological trauma and scars with the victims, which will remain with them forever.

“They have also endured an agonising wait to get to this point today.

“No sentence will give them back the years Bennett took away from them, but I sincerely hope the sentence goes some way in helping them find some closure and justice, knowing he cannot cause any harm to any other children or women.

“I commend both their courage in reporting these horrific historical sexual offences, and for their continued bravery and engagement throughout the investigation and court process."

She added: “We take every report of sexual violence incredibly seriously – regardless of how long ago the offences took place.

“I urge anyone who has experienced such behaviour to get in touch with us and not suffer in silence. “You will be listened to and supported by police, and we can refer you to third-party agencies including Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) for support through the court process.”