A WARMINSTER man has been sentenced to two years in prison for engaging in sexual activity with a child.

Edward Jukes, 79, was previously found guilty of sexually assaulting a vulnerable 14-year-old girl in June 2015 at an address in Warminster.

At Salisbury Crown Court on Thursday, February 16, a restraining order was also put in place and he will be on the sex offenders registers for 10 years.

After the sentencing, a member of the victim’s family said: "This was an incredibly hard thing to go through for all of us.

“The perpetrators of such offences don't think about the consequences or the impact on the victims or the wider fall out for other family members.

“This man's actions have had a damaging influence on all our lives. We knew him and trusted him, a position he completely abused.

“That is one of the hardest things to take, it's really hard not to blame yourself in this situation.

“The court process was very difficult especially giving evidence. You don't realise the length of time it all takes and the protracted legal process until your family are suddenly at the heart of it.

“People also need to realise that it's not one family against another, it's the Crown prosecuting someone who has broken the law.

“This man is now serving two years in prison, he is serving that time for breaking the law by abusing a young girl with learning disabilities. A young girl who was very brave and did the right thing in coming forward.

“We would say to parents that you must believe your child if they come to you with something like this. If they don't feel believed they may never come to you again and the abuse they suffer just goes on.”

DC Nick Ryan said: "We are pleased with the decision of the court and hope that the victim and her family feel some comfort that the legal process has now come to an end.

“We commend the young victim in this case for her bravery in coming forward and throughout the judicial process which has been very difficult and stressful for her and the rest of her family."

Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual assault is encouraged to contact Wiltshire Police on 101, or call the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) on 0808 168 0024 where you can get independent advice and support 24/7.