A PENSIONER from Suffolk has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two schoolgirls more than 30 years ago.

A PENSIONER from Suffolk has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two schoolgirls more than 30 years ago.

John Suttle, 77, was convicted of eight counts of indecent assault and two of indecency with a child by a jury at Ipswich Crown Court yesterday.

Suttle of Skates Hill, Glemsford, had denied the charges involving two sisters and refused to give evidence during his trial.

The court heard Suttle, an electrician, kissed the older sister, who is now in her 40s, on the mouth shortly before her 12th birthday and sexually assaulted her by touching her over and under her clothing on a regular basis during the next three years.

Noel Casey, prosecuting, had previously told the trial the assaults took place at the girl's home, his home or at a holiday cottage on the Suffolk coast. He also kissed the younger sister passionately when she was 13 at a family barbecue. It was also alleged the younger girl had seen her naked sister sitting astride Suttle in his lounge.

The trial heard earlier in the week that Suttle was an “outstanding member of the local community”. The Rev Patrick Prigg, rector of Glemsford church, was one of 20 friends and acquaintances who testified to Suttle's good character, saying he was “trustworthy and reliable”.

Judge John Devaux released Suttle on conditional bail for a report to be prepared ahead of his sentencing on April 1.