Michael Eckersley, 86, of Coldstream Close in Warrington, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for historic sexual offences against a child in Somerset. The 86-year-old was convicted at Taunton Crown Court on Tuesday, November 4, following a trial that concluded on September 4.
Eckersley was unanimously found guilty of 14 offences, including oral rape, indecent assault, and other counts of child indecency. The abuse took place over several years beginning in the 1980s.
According to Avon and Somerset Police, Eckersley received a nine-year custodial term for the lead charge of oral rape against a child, an additional five years for seven other counts of indecent assault, and two more years for six counts of indecency. These sentences will be served consecutively.
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The case came to light when the victim reported the abuse to a different police force before the investigation was transferred to Avon and Somerset Police in 2021. Eckersley voluntarily provided an interview on December 3, 2021.
In a powerful statement read out in court by prosecutor Virginia Cornwall, the victim described the psychological and emotional impact of the abuse: “Eckersley gave me presents and gifts, but all came at a sickening price – sexual favours. For six years, the abuse broke me. I had no one to confide in, so I carried the burden silently. I became withdrawn, occasionally self-harming, unable to understand the psychological damage.”
Reflecting on the lasting effects, the victim said, “I am angry, heartbroken, and finally letting out tears I have held inside for years. As a child, I was happy and adventurous despite a rough start. The last four years have brought it all back, and it still feels like it happened yesterday. I am angry for the boy I was and for the life I could have had.”
Detective Constable Ben Train, who led the investigation, highlighted the challenges faced due to the time elapsed since the offences: “This case was complex, as witnesses were hard to trace. However, those who came forward provided clear recollections, enabling us to secure a conviction.”
He added, “Michael Eckersley’s crimes represent a profound betrayal of trust and a terrible abuse of power against a vulnerable child. The courage shown by the victim and witnesses in coming forward is exceptional. While no sentence can undo the damage caused, this outcome reflects the seriousness with which the justice system treats these offences, regardless of when they happened.”
Avon and Somerset Police reaffirm their commitment to supporting victims of sexual abuse, promising to listen, believe, and provide specialist services tailored to survivors’ needs.