An East Hampshire man has been jailed for 14 years for carrying out a string of child sex offences on youngsters under the age of 13.

Michael Albery has been brought to justice following an investigation by Hampshire Police into child sex offences around Waterlooville between 2021 and 2031.

A jury found the 36-year-old of Rodney Way, Horndean, guilty of raping a girl under 13 and two counts of sexually assaulting a child under 13 following a week-long trial at Portsmouth Crown Court in September.

He returned to the same court on October 30 with the ‘predator’ being handed a 14-year sentence with a further year on extended licence when released.

He was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life with the judge and police praising the bravery of those who made Albery pay for his “horrific offences”.

“Whilst no sentence will ever return the victims to the lives they led before encountering this predator, I hope that knowing he is behind bars helps them, and their families, to begin to rebuild,” said Detective Constable Simon Hitchcock from the Eastern Child Abuse Investigations Team.

“I would like to thank the young victims and their families for their support throughout this investigation, and to commend them for their bravery, which has been key to us securing this result.

“We want to encourage anyone who has been affected by child sexual abuse to please report this too us.”

While they understand not everyone has the confidence to speak to officers, Hampshire Police have highlighted the support services available that can help victims of abuse.

Anyone who has experienced abuse in childhood, or is concerned about a child, can contact the NSPCC helpline, confidentially, on 0808 800 5000.

Alternatively, you can email [email protected]. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111.