School helper, 91, jailed for child abuse in 1970s

John Gaukroger took children camping as part of afterschool trips

A 91-year-old man has been jailed after being found guilty of indecently assaulting a child nearly 50 years ago.

John Gaukroger, of Halifax, abused a boy who was under the age of 10 while helping out at a children's afterschool centre between 1975 and 1976.

The crimes came to light in 2020 when the victim reported what happened to him to the police, prompting an investigation and eventually a trial.

Gaukroger, who denied the allegations, was found guilty in May of two counts of indecent assault against a child and was jailed for 26 months at Bradford Crown Court on Thursday.

The court heard that during his time helping at the children’s centre, he would also take the youngsters on camping trips.

Gaukroger's victim said there was not a day when he did not think about what happened, and it had had "a big impact on me, my family and my relationships".

"I feel like I have now come to terms with everything and since the case was in court I have had some of the best night's sleep I have ever had," he added.

"I am happy this now has a conclusion, and I can try my best to move on from this now."

Det Insp Vicky Lawrence, of West Yorkshire Police, appealed for other potential victims of Gaukroger's offending to come forward.

“Irrelevant of the length of time passed, you will be listened to, supported and we will do all we can to fight for victims and bring perpetrators to justice,” she said.

Gaukroger was also told he must sign the sex offender's register and was handed a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.

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