A child sex offender from North Staffordshire has been jailed for 18 years after police launched an investigation into allegations against him.

Simon Grand, 35, from Newcastle-under-Lyme. initially denied any wrongdoing but eventually admitted the offences due to evidence against him being so strong.

He appeared at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Friday 12 April and was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment, with an extended license period of eight years, for three counts of raping a child and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

He was also made subject of an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and put on the sex offenders register for life.

Grand was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment with an extended license period of eight years (Staffordshire Police).

Detective Constable Mai Briggs, from the child protection team, said: "This conviction wouldn't have been possible without the courage and sheer bravery shown from the survivors.

"I'd like to recognise the crucial role they played in securing justice. The impact this has had on them should not be underestimated. I would like to personally thank them for their support throughout this entire investigation.

"We will continue to work with our partners to protect children from harm, to protect and safeguard children and prevent cases like this one."

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