A SHROPSHIRE man has been sentenced to seven years in prison after he was found guilty of sexual offences against a child.

Nicholas Burgess, of no fixed address, was found guilty at Shrewsbury Crown Court last month of five counts of sexually assaulting a child and one count of inciting a child into sexual activity in Shifnal between 2018 and 2020.

The 52-year-old was jailed for seven years on August 12, and will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order.

Speaking after the sentencing, detective constable Geoff Anslow said: “I am pleased with the sentence handed out to Burgess, who is without doubt a dangerous and predatory individual. The sentence passed reflects the gravity of Burgess’s crimes and he will now spend a significant period behind bars.

“I must commend the victim for her bravery throughout the investigation and I hope today’s sentence is able to offer her some closure and will allow her to move forward with her life.

“I also hope that today highlights to the wider public that West Mercia Police takes all reports of child sexual offences seriously and that we will leave no stone unturned in bringing those responsible to justice.”

If you have been affected by sexual assault, then free and confidential local support is available from the Victim Advice Line. 

Support is available by telephone on 0800 9523000, via email at info@victimadviceline.org.uk and through live chat on www.victimadviceline.org.uk.