A Sunbury man was sentenced to 11 years in prison Thursday (June 27) after he was found guilty of multiple sexual offences over a 13-years period.

Richard Rowles, 42, of Churchill Way, Sunbury, was found guilty of ten counts of sexual offences, including sexual assault against a child under the age of 16.

Surrey Police began investigating the case in October 2017 after the victim came forward to report the offences, which dated back to 2003.

Following a thorough investigation, Mr Rowles was arrested and charged.

Detective Constable Sara McDowell, who investigated the case, offered her thoughts on Mr Rowles's sentence and provided further details on the seriousness of the case.

"Richard Rowles committed multiple sexual offences against the victim, which began when she was just 6 years old," DC McDowell said.

She also praised the bravery of the person who came forward to report the abuse as the case unfolded.

"I would like to pay tribute to the victim for her bravery in not only coming forward in the first place, but then for re-living her ordeal when she gave evidence in court.

"I hope that the fact that Rowles has received a lengthy jail sentence can help her to move on with her life," DC McDowell said.

Surrey Police said it takes matters involving sexual offences "extremely seriously" and urged anyone who might have information on such a case to contact them by calling101 (or 999 in an emergency).

For further support and advice, you can contact the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre http://www.rasasc.org/ or the National Association for People Abused in Childhood https://napac.org.uk/