A paedophile from Litherland has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for historical sex offences.
Joseph Catton is behind bars after being found guilty of two counts of rape and eight charges of indecent assault at Liverpool Crown Court on Monday.
Police welcomed the ruling against Catton, 72, for the string of offences which took place during the 1970s and 1980s.
Detective Inspector Jacqueline Fitzpatrick said: “Catton’s victims have shown an immense amount of bravery coming forward.
“Time should never be a barrier to obtaining justice and I hope today’s sentence gives his victims some sense of closure and vindicates their decision to come forward.
“Merseyside Police takes every report of sexual offences extremely seriously, whether or not they are recent, and has dedicated officers who are specially trained to both thoroughly investigate allegations and make sure that those reporting them are properly supported.
“I would like to take this opportunity to reassure anyone who has suffered a sexual offence that if you can find the courage to come forward and speak to us, we will deal with you sensitively and make sure that reports are properly and thoroughly investigated.”
People can call Merseyside Police on 101. Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.