A former Radio 1 DJ has admitted sexually abusing four boys at the Walton Hop Disco in the 1960s and 70s.

Christopher Denning, 75, is a convicted sex offender who is already serving 13 years after admitting 40 offences against 24 boys, aged nine to 16, in the 60s, 70s and 80s in 2014.

He has also served sentences in the UK, the Czech Republic and Slovakia for sex offences involving young boys.

Today, he admitted six counts of indecent assault against four boys under the age of 16 and two counts of gross indecency against boys under the age of 14 between 1969 and 1977 at Southwark Crown Court.

The charges came as part of Operation Ravine, the investigation into historic child sex offences linked to the Walton Hop Disco, which is now the Cecil Hepworth Playhouse, in Hurst Grove.

Detective chief inspector Jo Hayes said: “The four boys who Denning abused had moved on with their lives and were now adult men with families and careers.

“Often, they had not spoken to those closest to them about their ordeal as a child and only recently, as part of this investigation, have been able to do so.

“I must commend all of the men who have shown immense bravery in coming forward and speaking with police about their experiences all those years ago.

“Denning, who was looked up to and sometimes idolised by many young people, has used his status to prey on innocent children which he has now admitted to.

“We can never go back and take away the abuse these four men suffered as boys but I hope, in some way, today’s guilty plea brings some closure for them."

An NSPCC spokesman said: “The damning list of charges against Denning underline the dark depths to which he sank. He has shown himself to be a prolific offender, who has abused his young victims over almost two decades.

“Justice is finally catching up with him, but this will be of little comfort to his victims who are living with their own life sentence.

“The effects of abuse can last a lifetime and his victims have been incredibly brave in coming forward.

“It’s vitally important that abuse victims come forward, no matter how long ago, and report what has happened so they can get help they may need and so abusers can be brought to justice.

“Adults with any issues or concerns can call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000. Children and young people can call Childline on 0800 1111, or get help online atwww.childline.org.uk.”

Anyone with information about sexual offences linked to the Walton Hop Disco should call the investigating team on 01483 636485.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.