A MAN has been convicted of multiple historic sexual offences after a trial.

Harold Wharton was found unanimously guilty of six counts of indecent assault on an underage girl in Dalton-in-Furness in the late 1980s to early 1990s at Preston Crown Court on November 30.

The 73-year-old, of Ripley Avenue in North Shields, was also convicted of two counts of inciting the same victim to commit an act of gross indecency.

The complainant’s anonymity has been protected for legal reasons.

DC McFall of Barrow CID said: “The jury in this case unanimously found Wharton guilty of these crimes and the message from their decision is clear; complaints of sexual offences for incidents that happened over three decades ago or longer will be taken seriously by police and justice can still be served.

“No matter how much time has passed, support is available in Cumbria.

“The Constabulary works closely with trusted partner agencies to provide the appropriate support, which is tailored to an individual’s circumstances.”

Wharton was remanded in custody by His Honour Judge Darren Preston and will be sentenced for his crimes on February 23 2024.