A pervert who abused three vulnerable schoolgirls over a quarter of a century has been jailed for 17 years.

William John Hope, 57, manipulated his victims, telling one of the girls he loved her, while at other times he bullied them into remaining silent, Carlisle Crown Court heard.

His abuse finally came to light after one of the girls told a family member about what Hope had done.

The defendant, of no fixed address, but formerly of Botcherby, Carlisle, admitted 14 charges: six counts of raping a child, four sexual assaults on a child and four indecent assaults.

The bespectacled defendant sat impassively in the dock as prosecuting barrister Tim Evans outlined details of the abuse, almost all of it too upsetting to report.

One girl was aged just seven when he began abusing her, while another of the girls was nine.

The girl who raised the alarm revealed what was happening – that Hope was molesting her – a year after his abuse began.

Kim Whittlestone, for Hope, said background reports showed he had expressed remorse and shame.

As he passed sentence, Judge Peter Davies said that the effect on his three victims must have been catastrophic.

He told the defendant: “There is only one person to blame – and I'm looking at him.”

The judge noted Hope had sex with one of the girls numerous times, leaving her in pain and feeling intimidated, said the judge.

The judge described the defendant's offending as “persistent abuse,” and this, said the judge, prompted him to the view that Hope was a dangerous offender who posed a serious risk to little girls.

Hope will have to serve at least two thirds of his sentence and will only be released when the Parole Board rule that is safe.

He was also put on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.

When his sentence expires, he will remain on an extended licence for five years.

After the defendant was jailed, DC Mark Singleton said: “Hope’s offending is of the most serious kind and I am pleased he has been brought before the courts to answer for his crimes.

“He has inflicted a great deal of pain and suffering and his actions will continue to affect his victims for years to come. I would like to take this opportunity to thank his victims for their bravery in reporting the abuse they have suffered.

“I would urge anyone who has been subjected to any kind of abuse, no matter how long ago, to come forward to report it to us. All reports are dealt with sensitively and professionally."

​ If you have been affected by rape or sexual assault, contact The Bridgeway Sexual Assault Support Service’s 24/7 free helpline on 0808 118 6432.