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A “dangerous” paedophile who committed a series of “wicked, predatory and relentless” sexual offences against children has been given a 24-year sentence.

Christopher Murray, 63, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on July 19, where he pleaded guilty to 32 counts including indecent assault, indecency with a child, assault by penetration, and rape.

Murray, of Heol Llansantffraid, Sarn, Bridgend, admitted offences against four children during the 1990s.

His sentence includes 18 years in prison, followed by a six-year extended licence period.

Murray, who previously lived in Risca and Caldicot, was made the subject of a life-long sexual harm protection order designed to control his access to children, and will be on the sex offenders register indefinitely.

Detective Constable Abigail Short, of Gwent Police, said: “The bravery and resilience that Murray’s victims have shown throughout this investigation has been truly inspirational.

“Murray is a dangerous man, whose wicked, predatory and relentless behaviour has caused immense suffering to his victims, further compounded by the trauma of going through the court process.

“For victims, taking the first step to speak out about such horrific abuse is hard and I commend their courage and bravery.

“Hopefully, this 24-year extended prison sentence will finally allow them to move on with their lives and provides the closure they’ve so desperately needed.”

DC Short continued: “We hope this outcome shows other victims of sexual abuse that they will be listened to, believed and respected.

“We take all allegations of sexual abuse, particularly against children, very seriously and if a report is made to us, we will investigate it thoroughly.”

She added: “If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, please report it to us via the website, call us on 101 or send us a DM on our Facebook or X pages, so that we can investigate it.

“You can also contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, with details.”