Ribchester man (69) jailed for sex attacks 30 years ago

Vincent Whittingham (69), of Stydd Lane, Almshouse, Ribchester, was convicted of numerous sexual offences, including rape, following a trial earlier this year.

The offences involved three female victims aged between five and 13 and date back to March 1980. His last offence was committed in 2010.

Whittingham was sentenced at Burnley Crown Court today for offences including rape, sexual activity with a child and indecent assault.

Det. Con. Nick Blackledge said: “I am pleased with today’s sentence, which reflects the gravity of the offences committed by Whittingham.

“His crimes left the victims and their families devastated and they are still trying to pick up the pieces.

“Not only did he carry out a horrendous series of sexual assaults against vulnerable young girls, but forced them to relive their ordeal by refusing to admit his guilt and making them go through a trial.

“I’d like to pay a personal tribute to the victims in this case for their bravery and dignity throughout. I hope this sentence will help give them some sense of closure and that they are able to start to move on with their lives.”