A KEIGHLEY man described by police as "a serial abuser of children" has been jailed for over 20 years.

Keith Lockwood, 70, of Park Lane, was found guilty at Leeds Crown Court of 23 non-recent sexual offences.

The court heard that he had committed the offences, including gross indecency with a child and indecent assault, against seven boys aged under 16.

The offending occurred during the 1970s, 80s and 90s, in the Kirklees district.

Lockwood was jailed for 23 years, and will remain on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Detective Constable Gilly Hodds, who was part of the investigation team, says: “Lockwood was found guilty by a unanimous verdict of an appalling catalogue of offending against victims who were young and vulnerable.

“He forced those victims to relive the dreadful offences he committed against them by putting them through the ordeal of a trial, and I'm pleased for them that the jurors saw through his attempts to evade answering for what he has done.

“The victims demonstrated exceptional bravery in coming forward and supporting both the police and CPS in taking action against a man who has been a serial abuser of children whilst in a position of trust."