A MAN who sexually assaulted and exploited a teenage girl nearly 40 years ago has been jailed.

Ian Garland, of Barwell Grove in Emsworth, Hampshire was convicted of two counts of indecent assault and two counts of incitement to engage in sexual activity.

The 63-year-old “clearly and systematically groomed” a girl 11 years younger than him who lived nearby in Chichester over a three year period from 1982 to 1985. Garland was in his mid-twenties.

He was sentenced yesterday, March 16, at Salisbury Crown Court for two years and eight months. He will also be a registered sex offender for 10 years.

Garland took her to isolated locations where he assaulted the girl on “many occasions.”

Louise Clark, detective constable at West Sussex CID, said: "Garland was in his mid-twenties and living in Chichester when he met and befriended the girl, who lived nearby and was 11 years younger than him.

"Over a period of three years between 1982 and 1985 he clearly and systematically groomed her, taking advantage of her natural vulnerability for his own sexual gratification.

"He took her to isolated locations near the city where he assaulted on her on many occasions.

"Eventually his victim managed to break the relationship, but what happened to her has affected her life ever since. Three years ago she eventually came to us and we immediately began an investigation which resulted in Garland having no choice but to admit his terrible actions."

Friday March 18 is National Child Exploitation Awareness Day, when Sussex Police pledge to continue to protect those most at risk and prevent harm by questioning behaviours, looking again and convicting perpetrators.