A Suffolk man who carried out a “disturbing catalogue of sexual abuse” including rapes and indecent assaults on young girls has been jailed for 15 years.

Karl Garnham, 27, formerly from the Grange Farm Avenue area of Felixstowe, had pleaded not guilty to nine offences, meaning his young victims had to give evidence.

During a hearing at Ipswich Corwn Court in May this year, Garnham was found guilty of all charges, which included four sexual assaults on girls under 13 years old, three of rape and two of sexual activity with a child.

The charges relate to four girls, with offences dating back from 2003-2016 in the Felixstowe area.

Police were initially contacted in January 2016 to reports a young girl had been sexually assaulted by Garnham a few months prior. An investigation was launched, during which a further three victims came forward.

He was back before Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday when he was given a 20-year sentence – 15 years’ imprisonment and an extended licence period of five years. He was also given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Suffolk police’s Dc Hayley Kennedy said: “Whilst these offences began when Garnham was himself underage, he continued a disturbing catalogue of sexual abuse into adulthood which has had a significant effect on his victims.

“The victims, some of whom remain children, have been remarkably brave throughout this police investigation.

“I cannot take away what has happened to them but I hope that today’s result offers them some comfort in the knowledge that this man is now behind bars for his crimes against them.

“I hope, too, that it encourages other victims of sexual abuse to come forward and reassure them that we will always investigate any allegations of sexual abuse thoroughly and as a consequence bring offenders to justice.”

Sue Whitwood, NSPCC Service Centre Manager also praised the victims’ courage.

“Abuse like this ruins childhoods and by denying his crimes Garnham put his victims through even more suffering by making them recall their horrific ordeals in court,” she added.

“Their bravery in doing so must be commended and we hope they are receiving all the necessary, on-going support that they need.”

Children can contact Childline free on 0800 111 or visit here for help.