A paedophile has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexually assaulting two children.

Thomas Gerrity, 69, was sentenced to 20 years with an extra four on extended licence at Preston Crown Court on Thursday, July 4, following a trial.

Gerrity, of Sandhurst Avenue, Bispham, was found guilty of three counts of assault by penetration, six counts of indecent assault, and one count of sexual assault.

His two victims were both under the age of 10 when they were assaulted.

Det Insp Andrew Crook, of Lancashire Constabulary, said: “Firstly, I want to praise his two victims, who have shown such strength and resilience throughout this process. They should be so proud of themselves for their bravery.

“Gerrity’s crimes are nothing short of abhorrent, and I and my team welcome the sentence handed down on him.

 “I hope that this shows other victims of sexual offences that we will listen to you, we will investigate, and we will do all that we can to get you justice. If you, or someone you know have been a victim of a sexual offence, please talk to us.”