Man sentenced for sex offences against Eastbourne girl

Mark Godfrey, 55, unemployed, now of Alderue Avenue, Manchester, was sentenced at Hove Crown Court, having been found guilty after a nine-day trial of four counts of indecent assault.

He will also be a registered sex offender for life and was given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) to last indefinitely, severely restricting his access to any child under 16.

Detective Constable Emma Penrose-Reed of the East Sussex Safeguarding investigations Unit said, “Godfrey took advantage of the vulnerability of a young girl aged under 13 over several years.

“We always take seriously and investigate such reports, no matter how long ago the events were. We can also help victims gain access to sources of further advice and support.

“If you have been the victim of such offences or know of someone who has, you can contact us at any time online or by calling 101 and arrange to talk in confidence to experienced investigators.”

You can find information about specific support available for victims of rape and sexual assault here.